Assessments / Advice & next steps
When might an EP assessment help?
An EP assessment can be a valuable way to untangle complex learning barriers. It is a collaborative process designed to help you and your school understand how your child learns best.
Quick answer
An educational psychology assessment may help when there is a clear question about learning, development, emotional wellbeing, participation or provision that existing school assessment has not answered. It is most useful when findings can guide practical changes, not simply add another report.
What this means
Consider educational psychology when difficulties are complex, progress remains limited despite support, views differ or an EHC process needs advice about needs and provision. First ask what school already knows and whether another professional is better placed for communication, sensory, medical or mental-health questions.
An EP does not just provide a diagnosis. They offer a holistic view of the child. Their report will often suggest changes to teaching style, environmental adjustments, and support strategies.
Not every child struggling at school needs an EP assessment. If the school has not yet tried a range of targeted, evidence-based interventions, an EP assessment might be premature. Discuss the 'graduated approach' with your SENCO first.
Questions to ask
What remains unclear after school assessment? • Is educational psychology the right profession for that question? • How will recommendations change support?
Local Northamptonshire route
Schools and the two local authorities may access educational psychology differently. Ask the SENCO about the current North Northamptonshire or West Northamptonshire route and use the relevant SENDIASS service for free guidance.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Educational psychology is one option, not a mandatory step. Private work does not guarantee an EHCP or particular provision.
What happens next?
Use recommendations to update support and set a review date. If the report does not answer the agreed question, request clarification before commissioning further assessment.
Support that may help
HCPC-registered Educational Psychologist, School SENCO.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.