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Questions for parents to ask activity providers

Young girl with Down Syndrome climbing
Choosing the right activity provider for your child is an important decision, and it’s natural to want reassurance that they will be safe, supported, and included — especially if they have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).
Asking the right questions can help you understand how well a provider will meet your child’s needs.
The following questions are designed to guide your conversations with activity leaders and help you feel confident that the setting is welcoming, well‑prepared, and committed to your child’s wellbeing and enjoyment.

 

  • Can I observe a session first?  
  • Do you and your staff have DBS checks? 
  • Is there a policy on safeguarding children? 
  • What reasonable adjustments do you make for children with SEND? 
  • Do you and your staff have experience supporting children with SEND? 
  • Are staff trained in first aid? 
  • Any written code of conduct for staff/volunteers? 
  • Is there a behaviour policy in place? 
  • What are the emergency procedures? 
  • Who do I speak to if I have any concerns? 
  • How will you support my child’s SEN in this setting? 
  • How will you work with me to ensure my child is supported to engage with this activity?
  • Can I observe a session first?  
  • Do you and your staff have DBS checks? 
  • Is there a policy on safeguarding children? 
  • What reasonable adjustments do you make for children with SEND? 
  • Do you and your staff have experience supporting children with SEND? 
  • Are staff trained in first aid? 
  • Any written code of conduct for staff/volunteers? 
  • Is there a behaviour policy in place? 
  • What are the emergency procedures? 
  • Who do I speak to if I have any concerns? 
  • How will you support my child’s SEN in this setting? 
  • How will you work with me to ensure my child is supported to engage with this activity?