Formal Complaint Letter Template for Issues with SEND Support in School for a 40-Year-Old Student

When addressing a formal complaint to a school regarding issues with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support, especially concerning breakdowns in communication and failure to follow through with promises (such as not allowing fidget tools despite being in the personalized learning plan), it is important to be concise, respectful, and clear about the issues and expectations. Below is a step-by-step explanation followed by a sample formal complaint letter you could adapt for this situation.

Step-by-Step Guidance

• Start by addressing the correct recipient: Usually the Headteacher or SEND Coordinator of the school.
• Identify yourself clearly: State your relationship to the student (parent, guardian, or the student themselves).
• Summarize the concerns: Specify issues such as lack of evidence of SEND records, no fidget tools allowed despite being in the personal learning plan, and poor communication.
• Provide details: Mention dates, meetings, promises made, or other relevant communication.
• State impact: How these issues have affected the student’s education and well-being.
• Request specific actions: For example, a review of the personal learning plan, allowance of agreed support measures, and improved communication.
• Express intention to escalate if unresolved: Mention that if the complaint is not resolved, you may seek further steps.
• Close politely: Thank them for their attention and provide your contact details.

Sample Formal Complaint Letter

  
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]

[Date]

[Headteacher’s Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, Postcode]

Dear [Headteacher’s Name],

I am writing to formally raise concerns regarding the support provided for my [son/daughter/self], [Student’s Full Name], who is currently enrolled at [School Name]. As a 40-year-old student with identified Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), I have experienced significant issues related to communication and the implementation of agreed support measures.

Despite the existence of a personal learning plan (PLP) which explicitly includes the use of fidget tools to support [his/her/my] learning and concentration, these tools have consistently been disallowed in the classroom. This has adversely impacted [his/her/my] ability to engage fully and benefit from lessons.

Furthermore, there appears to be no accessible record or evidence on file regarding SEND provision for [Student’s Name], despite previous discussions in meetings and assurances from staff members. Communication around these issues has often been delayed or unclear, making it difficult to ensure the necessary support is in place.

I kindly request that the school urgently:

1. Review and update the personal learning plan to ensure all agreed support measures, including the use of fidget tools, are fully implemented.
2. Provide clear and timely communication regarding SEND provisions and any meetings or reviews related to them.
3. Make available the relevant SEND records and documentation for review.

I look forward to your prompt response to this matter. Should this issue remain unresolved, I may seek further advice from the local education authority or other appropriate bodies.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

This letter establishes a formal tone, states facts clearly, and requests specific actions. You can adapt it according to your particular situation.