The SEND Leave of Absence Toolkit

A step-by-step guide to helping you make a well-evidenced request for authorised leave where your child's disability is a relevant factor.

As a former social worker, I've worked with families navigating complex legislation, education systems and decision-making processes.

I know how overwhelming it can feel when you're trying to advocate for your child, especially when you're unsure what the law actually says.

That's why I created this toolkit.

It has been designed to help parents and carers understand the legal framework, gather the right evidence and prepare a clear, respectful request that explains their child's individual circumstances.

This isn't just a template letter.

It's a complete toolkit to help you feel informed and confident when communicating with your child's school.

What's Included

✔ Editable Leave of Absence Letter Template

A professionally written template that you can personalise to your child's circumstances, referencing the relevant legal framework in a balanced and accurate way.

✔ Understanding the Law (Plain English Guide)

A simple explanation of:

• Equality Act 2010

• Children and Families Act 2014

• Education (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2024

No legal jargon—just practical guidance to help you understand how these laws relate to your request.

✔ Evidence Checklist

Know exactly what documents and supporting information could strengthen your request, including:

• Medical evidence

• EHCPs

• SEND Support Plans

• Professional reports

• Parent statements

• School records

✔ 10 Common Mistakes Parents Make

Avoid the mistakes that can weaken an otherwise strong request.

Learn how to present your child's needs clearly, respectfully and effectively.

Who Is This Toolkit For?

This resource is suitable for parents and carers of children with SEND, including those with:

✔ Autism

✔ ADHD

✔ Learning disabilities

✔ Sensory processing differences

✔ Anxiety disorders

✔ Physical disabilities

✔ Long-term medical conditions

...and other disabilities where individual needs may be relevant to a request for leave.

What This Toolkit Will Help You Do

✔ Understand the law in plain English.

✔ Prepare a well-evidenced request.

✔ Explain your child's individual circumstances clearly.

✔ Feel more confident when communicating with your child's school.

✔ Keep your request focused, respectful and child-centred.

What This Toolkit Does Not Do

This toolkit cannot guarantee that your request will be authorised.

The decision remains at the discretion of the Headteacher, who must consider each request on its individual merits and in accordance with the relevant legal framework.

This resource is designed to help you present your child's circumstances clearly and understand the legislation that may be relevant to your request.

Why I Created This Resource

After sharing information about disability-related leave of absence on social media, I received hundreds of requests from parents asking for help.

Many told me they didn't know:

• What evidence to include.

• How to explain their child's needs.

• What the law actually says.

• How to write a professional request.

Rather than sending the same advice over and over, I created this toolkit so families could have everything they need in one place.

A Note From Me

As a former social worker and parent of a child with complex needs, I've spent years helping families understand legislation and advocate for the support their children need as well as doing so for my own child.

My goal is simple:

To make SEND law easier to understand, so parents and carers can feel informed, prepared and confident when speaking up for their children.

Instant Download

Download today and start preparing your request with confidence.

Included:

✔ Editable Letter Template

✔ Understanding the Law Guide

✔ Evidence Checklist

✔ 10 Common Mistakes Guide

Due to the digital nature of this product refunds are not available

Disclaimer: This toolkit is an educational resource designed to help parents understand the relevant legal framework and prepare a well-evidenced request. It does not constitute legal advice and cannot guarantee that a request for leave will be authorised. Decisions remain at the discretion of the Headteacher and should be made in accordance with the relevant legislation and the individual circumstances of each child.