Cognitive/learning difficulties assessment

[Pigriver]

How would I go about getting a formal assessment of learning difficulties?
School EP said they won't do this but who will? Child is in Y4 and working at Reception/Y1 levels and also in speech and language assessment scored to low to assess on the 5-8 test and they are 9!
Doesn't have an EHCP and school said it will take at least a year based on how long kids are currently waiting. School are supporting as best as they can but surely with scores this low they will need help throughout their life?

You can apply for an EHCP yourself. There are sample letters on some of the SEN websites I believe. I think IPSEA and SOSSEN might be useful.

It does sound as though your child will need ongoing support. I think school EPs must be working differently from what I remember, but it is possible to get a private EP assessment. It’s expensive though.

A good ed psych assessment will look at learning difficulties. But very, very few get an EP assessment via the school or LA outwith the EHCNA process. Many LA EP assessments are also poor and do not include cognitive testing. If an EHCNA hasn’t already been requested, do that yourself. On their website, IPSEA has a model letter you can use. It won’t be an immediate solution but the EHCNA process is governed by statutory timescales. LAs like to think these don’t apply but they do and if the LA breaches them you can take action to force their hand.

You could look at an independent EP assessment.

If there are more general developmental concerns too, a referral to paeds is worthwhile. The school or GP will be able to help with that.

Thanks
School have said they will speak to EP but that in the past they would not to cognitive testing.

I knew there was a concern with language, they are very quiet but am shocked it was just so bad. School are doing lots already but in light if these most recent tests it's much worse than any of us thought.

I will ask GP for referral to pediatrician.