Supporting School Attendance for Children with SEND

School attendance is an important aspect of a child’s educational journey, but for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), maintaining regular attendance can present challenges. As a parent, understanding these challenges, knowing your child’s rights, and working collaboratively with schools can help create a positive and inclusive learning experience.

The Importance of School Attendance

Regular school attendance is essential for all children as it provides stability, continuity, and access to a broad curriculum. It also supports social development, allowing children to form friendships and develop important life skills. However, for children with SEND, school attendance can sometimes be inconsistent due to health conditions, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or difficulties with transitions and routines.

Common Barriers to Attendance for Children with SEND

Children with SEND may experience a range of barriers that affect their ability to attend school regularly. These can include:

• Anxiety and Mental Health: Many children with SEND, particularly those with autism or ADHD, may struggle with anxiety, which can make school attendance distressing.
• Medical and Physical Health Issues: Conditions such as epilepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, or mobility difficulties can lead to frequent absences.
• Sensory Overload: Bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming, making school an uncomfortable environment.
• Difficulty with Transitions: Moving from home to school or between activities can be challenging, leading to reluctance or refusal to attend.
• Inadequate Support: A lack of appropriate support, such as an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or reasonable adjustments, can make it harder for a child to engage with school life.

Legal Rights and Parental Responsibilities

Under UK law, all children, including those with SEND, have the right to an education. However, parents also have a legal duty to ensure their child attends school regularly.

For children with SEND:

• Schools must make reasonable adjustments to support attendance, including providing additional resources or flexible arrangements as per The SEND Code of Practice (2015).
• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) can outline specific support to meet a child’s needs where the support and adjustments for a child are more complex. The SEN Expert supports parents, young people, and schools throughout the EHCP application process, helping to ensure a smooth and successful submission. We also offer additional support for EHCP meetings in schools, providing guidance and expertise to help secure the right provisions for your child.
• Exemptions from Attendance Penalties: If absences are linked to a child’s SEND, schools should work with families rather than penalising them, fostering a collaborative approach.

Strategies to Improve Attendance

There are several strategies that parents can employ to support their child’s school attendance:

·       Work Collaboratively with the School

Communicate openly with teachers and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) about your child’s needs. Attend meetings and contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or EHCP reviews, if you are unsure when these are taking place, ask the school for an invitation. Request reasonable adjustments (most authorities have access to an Ordinarily Available Guide for school provision, please ask your school or caseworker for more information) such as quiet spaces, sensory breaks, or part-time timetables if necessary.

·      Establish a Consistent Routine

Create a structured morning routine to reduce stress before school. Use visual schedules or timers to help with transitions. Encourage a bedtime routine that supports good sleep hygiene. Should sleep be a contributing factor then your GP or other health services should be able to provide further guidance.

·       Address Anxiety and Emotional Well-being

Talk to your child about their concerns and validate their feelings. Work with the school to develop a supportive plan, including mentoring or access to counselling. Use stories, role-play, or visits to school outside normal hours to help reduce anxiety.

·       Ensure Access to Medical and Therapeutic Support

If your child has medical needs, ensure the school has an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP). Liaise with occupational therapists, speech therapists, or mental health professionals as needed. Keep medical records updated and share relevant information with the school.

When School Attendance Remains a Struggle

If attendance continues to be a challenge despite interventions, parents can seek additional support:

• Request a SEND Tribunal or Mediation if you feel your child’s needs are not being met.  The SEN Expert can also support you through the tribunal process if needed. We offer advocacy, meeting support, and document reviews to help you navigate this stage with confidence. Our specialist knowledge ensures that your child’s EHCP is correctly implemented and truly reflects their needs, securing the right support and outcomes they deserve. EHCP tribunal support is available on a case-by-case basis.
• Engage with Local SEND Support Services, such as Parent Partnership Services, for guidance.
• Consider Educational Psychologist Assessments to gain a deeper understanding of your child’s needs.
• Work with the Local Authority if alternative education options need to be explored. Attending meetings with professionals can feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to the world of SEND. The SEN Expert provides advocacy services to ensure your voice is heard and that your child gets the best possible support. Our advocacy support is flexible and tailored to your needs—we offer in-person meeting support, pre-meeting planning sessions, as well as telephone and email assistance. Our goal is to empower you with the confidence and knowledge to advocate for your child effectively. Advocacy services are available on a case-by-case basis.

Conclusion

Supporting school attendance for children with SEND requires patience, collaboration, and a tailored approach. By working together with schools, advocating for appropriate support, and prioritising your child’s well-being, you can help create a positive and successful educational experience. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment that meets their unique needs, and with the right strategies in place, attendance challenges can be effectively managed.

If you are facing difficulties with your child’s school attendance, don’t hesitate to reach out to school staff, The SEN Expert, or support organisations for guidance. You are not alone, and there are resources available to help your child thrive in their educational journey.

‍