ASSESSMENT & CONSULTATION
Full Assessment
Individual assessments are usually carried out within school (with permission from staff). This enables a wider range of information to be gathered across contexts. Home visits can be arranged by special request. Children and young people will be invited to work individually (with support of known adults if they are more comfortable) in order to complete the assessment which can take one to three hours (with breaks). The nature of individual work will be dependent on the needs identified and the age of the child or young person. This could include the use of standardised measures for cognitive ability, attainment and emotional well-being or dynamic approaches as required. For young children, a child friendly play based assessment is often most appropriate.
In addition to individual work, consultations with parents and staff are included along with an observation if appropriate. A detailed report is provided detailing background, views, areas of need, suggested outcomes and provision. A full assessment is often requested as part of pre-statutory work, where evidence is required to move forward with a request for statutory assessment.
Focused Assessment
Where a full assessment is not required, a 'light touch' assessment can be completed focusing on one key area of need. Alternatively, consultation sessions can be completed with parents and staff following an observation of the child/young person if appropriate. This work would focus on identifying barriers/needs and agreeing outcomes and provision/next steps. A brief consultation record will be provided.
Dyslexia Assessment
Cognitive assessment and consultation in order to identify whether a diagnosis of Dyslexia can be given.
Examination Access Arrangements
Cognitive assessment in order to identify whether access arrangements are required for examinations.
Facilitation of Meetings/Collaborative Problem Solving
Facilitation of meetings for a range of purposes. A range of approaches and tools can be used to effectively run productive meetings. Examples include but are not limited to: team around the family, planning/reviews, professionals meetings, problem solving/needs analysis, pathways to adulthood. This approach is often requested for meetings where an independent facilitator would be beneficial or where the situation is complex, as Amanda will be able to use a range of approaches to explore the issues, identify barriers and move towards solutions.
Staff Drop in Consultations
Staff will be able to book time slots to discuss concerns, explore issues and identify next steps.
Parent Drop in Sessions
A block of time during which parents are able to book individual time slots for brief face-to-face discussions. Alternatively, a setting or group of parents may wish to book a less formal ‘coffee morning’ approach for shared discussion.
Virtual Consultations
Consultations completed virtually (by telephone or video call) are a cost effective option, ideal for discussing initial concerns, identifying next steps and signposting to appropriate services where possible. Sessions last up to 1 hour and are payable in advance. Virtual consultations are offered across the UK.