Identifying sensory differences

Assessment tools

If you suspect a learner may have sensory differences, assessment can offer valuable insights into how these differences affect their learning and behaviour and guide meaningful adjustments to support their needs. Recommended assessment tools include:

  • Focused observations during different activities and environments

  • STAR/ABC charts to track triggers and responses

  • Sensory checklists completed with parents/carers

  • Pupil voice activities to hear directly from the learner

Resource Description Pricing Stage
Sensory Processing webpage Sheffield Children's NHS web page explaining sensory processing Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
STAR chart ABC Behaviour chart to observe and track challenging behaviour Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
ABC chart Sensory Checklist & Problem Solving Tool Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
South Warwickshire sensory checklist Sensory checklist to inform sensory pattern Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
Planning a Sensory passport Planning tool to inform sensory passport Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary
Sensory passport template Use this template to create a sensory passport Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary
Sensory passport example Good practice example - sensory passport Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary