A school’s website is a good place to start. It can give you a sense of the school’s character. Each school must also have a special educational needs (SEN) policy and information about managing health needs.
The school’s website will also include a copy of its most recent Ofsted report or a link to the report on the Ofsted website. Ofsted inspections include looking at how a school is supporting children with SEN.
Visiting a potential school is important. You will be able to see the school environment, meet staff, and see children learning.
Mainstream schools have open days for families of children starting primary or secondary school. The local authority’s school admission team sends information about these. You can also find details on school websites.
You can also make an appointment to visit a school at a different time. You should call or email the school to arrange this. You may want to ask to meet the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) on your visit or speak to them before you go.
Special schools and integrated resources do not tend to have open days. Instead, they show families around by appointment.
During a school visit, you might want to:
It can be useful to make a list of questions you want to ask and to make a note of the answers.
Think about whether your child will come with you on the visit. This can be useful for your child and the school. But it can also lead to disappointment if they don’t get a place at a school they really liked. You may want to talk to the school about this in advance.
After the visit
Talk to your child and think about whether:
Talk to other parents whose children attend the school if possible. The school might have SEN coffee mornings that you could attend.
If you have any concerns
You can ask to speak to the head teacher or school SEN governor if, when you visit, you have any concerns that the school isn’t being supportive.
You can contact SSENDIAS or the Sheffield Parent Carer Forum. They will be able to share this information with Sheffield City Council.
SSENDIAS is Sheffield’s SEN and Disability Information, Advice, and Support.
Sheffield Parent Carer Forum (SPCF) is a parent-led charity. It brings parents of children and young people with SEND together, provides support, shares information, and influences policy and practice.
Visit Schools and childcare | Sheffield City Council for information about applying for a school place in Sheffield.
Visit Scope for more information about choosing a school for your child.
See the Sheffield Transition Core Principles if your child is moving between schools.