Additional Support
for Learning

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At a glance – early signs of additional support needs

Pre-school Children

Sometimes the first indication that a child may have additional support needs emerges when the child is attending nursery or a pre-school centre.

Early years staff, working in partnership with you, will have a key role in identifying whether your child may need extra support.

Others who come into contact with your child, such as a paediatrician, social worker or a particular type of therapist, may also notice these early signs. If they are concerned that your child may need extra support, they will first tell you and then the education authority.

School-age children

A teacher will normally identify children who require a greater level of attention or planning. For example, they may notice that a child has made a slow start in learning to read or that they are far more advanced than other pupils of their age.

However, any professionals who come into contact with your child, such as a social worker, school nurse or GP, can also raise their concerns with the education authority.

As a parent, you may also bring your concerns to the teacher or school.

Young people, aged 16 or over

Your child has the same rights as you if they are aged 16 or over. If you think they may need additional support and this has not been recognised by the professionals working with them, then they have the same right as you to ask their education authority to arrange assessments to find out if they do.

If your child does not have the capacity to seek the support they require, then as their parent you should ask for an assessment on your child’s behalf.