Specialist assessment that leads to practical action
The Think Works supports schools to understand learning and communication needs, translate assessment findings into practical provision and work collaboratively with families. Input is shaped around a clear referral question and the decisions the school needs to make.
Possible areas of work
Educational psychology consultation and individual assessment.
Literacy, numeracy and specific-learning-difference questions.
Speech, language and communication assessment.
Complex and overlapping needs.
Recommendations for classroom access and participation.
Follow-up consultation and review where agreed.
A strong referral question
“What support will help this pupil understand multi-step classroom language?” is more useful than “Please test for everything.” The initial consultation clarifies the question, existing evidence, interventions and intended use of the assessment.
Information schools may be asked to provide
With appropriate consent, relevant information may include attainment, attendance, classroom observations, support plans, intervention records, work samples and the child’s views. Only information relevant to the assessment should be shared.
Reports and recommendations
Reports describe strengths, needs, interpretation and practical recommendations. Recommendations should be prioritised, feasible and understood by those responsible for implementing them. A private report can inform planning but does not replace the school’s or Department’s own statutory responsibilities and decisions.