Who should I speak to in school?

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Start with someone who knows your child

In most cases, your child’s class teacher or another member of staff who knows them well is the best person to speak to first.

You do not need to know exactly what support your child needs before starting the conversation.

Who can I speak to?

1

Class teacher

Usually the best starting point, particularly if they know your child well and see them regularly.

2

Additional support lead

Your school may have a member of staff who coordinates additional support for learning.

3

Senior leader

A principal teacher, depute headteacher or headteacher may become involved when further discussion or planning is needed.

Before you speak to the school

It may help to make a brief note of:

  • what you have noticed
  • when and where the difficulty happens
  • what your child has told you
  • anything that appears to help
  • what you would like the school to consider

What happens next?

Step 1

The school listens

Staff will discuss your concerns and share what they have noticed.

Step 2

Support is considered

The school may adjust existing support or agree some new actions.

Step 3

Progress is reviewed

You and the school should discuss whether the support is helping.

You can ask questions

It is reasonable to ask what support is being provided, who is involved, when progress will be reviewed and how you will be kept informed.

What if I am still worried?

Speak to the school again and explain what remains unresolved. You can ask for a meeting with the member of staff responsible for additional support or with a senior leader.

You are an important part of planning support for your child.

Start with someone who knows your child

In most cases, your child’s class teacher or another member of staff who knows them well is the best person to speak to first.

You do not need to know exactly what support your child needs before starting the conversation.

Who can I speak to?

1

Class teacher

Usually the best starting point, particularly if they know your child well and see them regularly.

2

Additional support lead

Your school may have a member of staff who coordinates additional support for learning.

3

Senior leader

A principal teacher, depute headteacher or headteacher may become involved when further discussion or planning is needed.

Before you speak to the school

It may help to make a brief note of:

  • what you have noticed
  • when and where the difficulty happens
  • what your child has told you
  • anything that appears to help
  • what you would like the school to consider

What happens next?

Step 1

The school listens

Staff will discuss your concerns and share what they have noticed.

Step 2

Support is considered

The school may adjust existing support or agree some new actions.

Step 3

Progress is reviewed

You and the school should discuss whether the support is helping.

You can ask questions

It is reasonable to ask what support is being provided, who is involved, when progress will be reviewed and how you will be kept informed.

What if I am still worried?

Speak to the school again and explain what remains unresolved. You can ask for a meeting with the member of staff responsible for additional support or with a senior leader.

You are an important part of planning support for your child.

Page last updated: 20 Jul 2026, 04:20 PM