Update on Neurodiversity (ND) Tool development

An update on the Neurodiversity (ND) tool is currently being developed through the System Collaborative programme. 

ND Early Needs Assessment Tool 

The proposed online ND early needs assessment tool is being designed for use by children and young people (CYP), their families and professional practitioners. Its purpose is to help build a shared understanding of a child's strengths and needs and to support informed decision-making. 

The tool will be trialled from April 2027 and will continue to evolve, with further resources added and potential links to other systems explored. It is not intended to replace any existing practice. 

Expectations for Identification of Need in Schools 

INDES (Identification of Needs in Educational Settings) remains the required approach for all CYP in your setting who have additional needs, including those who join mid-phase. Please continue to complete the INDES webform, using it alongside existing tools such as the Graduated Provision Map (GPM) and the Inclusion and Provision Self-Evaluation Framework (IPSEF). 

Using these tools together will help ensure identification of needs—both for individual CYP and across cohorts—is accurate, holistic and consistent. Information gathered should be used to plan effective provision, monitor progress and review support in line with statutory expectations. Collectively, these tools provide a robust framework for understanding your school's profile of need and ensuring provision remains well targeted and effective. 

Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting children and young people with SEND. If you have any questions or would like further guidance, please do get in touch. 

[This information was updated 2 June 2026; see Update on the Early Needs and Support Mapping Tool.]