ADHD at School: Getting Your Child the Right Support

School Support for Children with ADHD

Children with ADHD are entitled to support at school under the Equality Act 2010 and the Children and Families Act 2014. The school has a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments and provide SEN support where needed.

Classroom Adjustments

Simple changes can make a big difference: seating near the front away from distractions, breaking tasks into smaller steps, visual timetables, movement breaks, extra time for processing instructions, a quiet space to work when overwhelmed, fidget tools, and clear consistent routines.

SEN Support (School-Based)

If your child needs more than standard classroom adjustments, the school should put them on SEN Support. This means: a designated SENCO oversees their needs, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or similar document sets targets and strategies, regular reviews with you, and access to interventions like social skills groups or 1:1 support.

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

If your child's needs are significant and SEN Support isn't enough, you can apply for an EHCP. This is a legal document that sets out your child's needs, the provision required, and which school can meet those needs. EHCPs can unlock funding for 1:1 support, specialist resources, or specialist school placement. The process takes up to 20 weeks.

Exam Access Arrangements

Children with ADHD may qualify for exam adjustments: 25% extra time, rest breaks, a separate room, a reader or scribe, and supervised breaks. The school's SENCO applies for these through JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications). Evidence of need is required - usually an educational psychologist report or a history of SEN Support.

When School Pushes Back

If the school isn't providing adequate support: put your concerns in writing to the SENCO and headteacher, request a meeting, reference the Equality Act and SEND Code of Practice, contact your local SENDIASS (free independent advice service), and if necessary escalate to the local authority or SEND tribunal. You are your child's best advocate.