Where would you like guidance?

Choose the option that best matches your school concern and we’ll guide you through practical next steps.

You do not need to know the right route yet. Start with the option that feels closest to your situation.

What best describes your school concern?

My child is struggling but support is unclear

I want to understand what school has noticed and what support is in place.

SEN support is in place but it is not working

I need clearer information about what is being provided and reviewed.

I need help speaking to school or the SENCO

I want help preparing questions, getting answers or following up.

I am worried about behaviour, sanctions or exclusions

I need to understand whether unmet needs or support may be involved.

My child is anxious about school or not attending

I want to understand possible triggers and support options.

I think my child may need more formal support

Ordinary SEN support may not be enough and I want to understand formal routes.

I’m not sure where to start

Start with the biggest concern and one practical question for school.

Choose the option that best matches your situation to see your suggested route.

Helpful free School Support advice & next steps

Read free information first, then decide whether any further support would help.

Free resource

What is SEN support?

Understand the support schools can provide and what to ask next.

Helps with

SEN support, adjustments and reviews

Read advice & next steps

Free resource

Preparing for a school meeting

A calm checklist for concerns, questions and agreed actions.

Helps with

Meetings, questions and follow-up

Read advice & next steps

Free resource

Keeping a school support record

Keep emails, plans, incidents and review dates organised.

Helps with

Evidence, communication and dates

Read advice & next steps

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.