EdPsych in school

[RomaRed10]

Is it common to have independent EdPsych's visit schools to assess children? I am getting pushback from our secondary school saying they don't allow independent EdPsychs onto school grounds.

Any thoughts or ideas to move this forward?

This isn’t uncommon.

Are you mid appeal to SENDIST?

We have already submitted our application for EHCP. We would prefer for the EdPsych to visit in school because the environment is sometimes a trigger for her.

Would like a way to gently persuade them to work with us.

In my experience, it is more common in independent schools than in state mainstreams. Maybe ask for a meeting with the Head and SENCO and explain why you want this, with an emphasis on the fact the EP isn't watching the teacher, they're watching your child etc. If they feel very uncomfortable with it, perhaps the EP could see your child in the school context but not in lessons as a halfway measure?

Request a meeting with the HT. Sadly, some schools won’t allow it at all, no matter what parents say. Complain if that is your situation,

The reason I asked if you are mid SENDIST appeal is because if you were, you could try asking SENDIST to order access. But if you aren’t at that stage, that won’t be possible.