Education Support

By Think ADHD
By Think ADHD

We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary between patients. If in doubt, speak to a healthcare professional.

This page is for parents of children and teenagers with ADHD-type symptoms, typically those in primary and secondary education.

For young adults with ADHD who are currently in higher education or preparing to attend university, please see our university students page.

Snapshot

Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) provide tailored support strategies, helping children keep on track with their learning and behaviour.
SEN and Teaching Assistant support offers additional help in managing tasks and staying focused during lessons.
Behavioural plans, and communication between parents and teachers, ensure consistent support for managing impulsive behaviours.
Parents play a key role in advocating for their child’s needs and supporting routines at home.

For children and teenagers with ADHD, academic success often requires additional support beyond the typical classroom strategies.

In the UK, schools are obligated under the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice to provide tailored support to meet the educational needs of students with ADHD. The goal is to create an environment where these students can succeed despite often having challenges with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Tailored support for school-aged children

Schools offer a range of accommodations to help children with ADHD navigate academic tasks. This support is often delivered through an Individualised Education Plan (IEP), a personalised roadmap that outlines the specific strategies and goals for each child. This plan is usually created collaboratively between parents, teachers, and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs).

Key features of education support for children with ADHD include:

IEPs and Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support
IEPs detail specific accommodations, such as extra time for tasks, breaking down assignments into smaller steps, or providing regular breaks to help manage restlessness. SENCOs play a key role in developing and monitoring these plans.
Teaching Assistant Support
Some children may require extra help from a teaching assistant (TA) to stay focused or manage challenging behaviour. TAs can offer one-on-one support, guiding the child through tasks and helping them develop better organisational skills.
Behavioural Support Plans
For students with behavioural difficulties linked to ADHD, schools can implement behaviour plans to manage impulsivity and emotional outbursts. These plans often include positive reinforcement techniques and consistent routines that help the child learn self-regulation.

Your role as a parent

Parents play a vital role in advocating for their child’s needs within the education system. Regular communication with teachers and SENCOs ensures that a child’s IEP remains effective and adjusts to any changing needs. Parents can also support their child at home by maintaining consistent routines, providing a structured environment for homework, and fostering a positive attitude toward school.

For students with more complex needs, parents may need to explore additional options, such as applying for an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), which provides further support and resources.

More detail…

The role of SENCOs in ADHD education support

Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) are key figures in the support system for children with ADHD in the UK.

SENCOs assess a child’s needs, coordinate the development of IEPs, and ensure the appropriate support is provided. They work closely with teachers and parents to implement strategies that support the student in a classroom environment.

Whether it’s allocating teaching assistants, ensuring access to quiet spaces, or making sure behaviour plans are followed, SENCOs help to create a structured and inclusive educational environment for children with ADHD.

Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) for students with ADHD

IEPs are a cornerstone of education support for ADHD students. These personalised plans outline specific goals and adjustments tailored to the student’s unique challenges. IEPs may involve providing additional time for tasks, breaking assignments into smaller, more manageable parts, or allowing the student to take breaks to reduce restlessness. Regular reviews of the IEP ensure that the plan evolves as the student’s needs change.

With input from teachers, parents, and SENCOs, IEPs create a collaborative approach to supporting a student’s academic and behavioural success.

Ready to take our free Adult ADHD self-test?

Other treatments & coping strategies

ADHD Coaching

Treatments ADHD Coaching By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Treatments Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember,

Counselling and Family Therapy

Treatments Counselling & Family Therapy By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember,

Education Support

Treatments Education Support By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary

Education Support – University Students

Treatments Support for university students By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember,

Lifestyle Changes

Treatments Lifestyle Changes By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary

Medication

Treatments Medication By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary between

Mindfulness & Relaxation

Treatments Mindfulness & Relaxation By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms

Physical Exercise

Treatments Physical Exercise By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary

Support Groups

Treatments Support Groups By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary