Children of school age are referred to the service by their school's special educational needs co-ordinator. Educational psychologists also get information about children under the age of five from health professionals such as paediatricians or speech and language therapists. During the assessment different kinds of information are brought together. The educational psychologist can only see a child or discuss a particular case if they have the written consent of the parents or those with parental responsibility. The parents or carers assist in providing information about the child.
Parents have the right to be present during interviews with their child.
Although they may prefer to discuss the findings afterwards. During statutory assessment procedures an educational psychologist does not make decisions about which school a child should go to or how much provision can be accessed for a particular child. Parents or Carers are entitled to receive copies of reports written about their child. There will be opportunities to ask questions or voice concerns to the educational psychologist. A very small proportion of children may have some developmental, sensory or behavioural needs which are so great that they may need support over and above that which the school can usually provide.