SEN early intervention under the EYFS

The Department for Education published a green paper last week outlining plans for a universal assessment for all children as they progress through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) in an attempt to identify children with special educational needs (SEN) as early as possible. It will mean that every child will have had their cognitive development formally assessed by the age of 2 and a half  .

The plan is that an additional 4200 health visitors will be employed by 2015 to administer the tests. On the face of it this seems like quite a good move as it will mean that it is not left solely down to pre-schools to identify difficulties. However, in light of the severe cut backs faced by local authorities it has to be questioned whether the reality will match the theory. In particular will the system of administering the tests be effective and will sufficient support be made available for those children identified as having SEN.