Help & Support
Get started with SENScribe and learn how to create professional Student Support Files in minutes.
Quick Start Guide
Step 1: Enter Your Observations
Type your informal notes about the student. Use everyday language. Describe what you've observed in class without worrying about formal phrasing.
Step 2: Select the Support Level
Choose the appropriate level from the NEPS Continuum of Support: Classroom Support (Level 1), School Support (Level 2), or School Support Plus (Level 3).
Step 3: Generate Your Draft
Click 'Generate Draft' and SENScribe will transform your notes into professional, NCSE-aligned language suitable for your Student Support File.
Step 4: Review and Copy
Review the generated content, make any adjustments, then copy each section directly into Aladdin, VSware, or your school's documentation system.
What SENScribe Can & Can't Do
Understanding these boundaries helps you get the best results and use the tool appropriately.
✓ SENScribe Can
- •Transform informal notes into NCSE-aligned professional language
- •Generate SMART targets appropriate to the support level
- •Suggest evidence-based interventions and strategies
- •Use neuroaffirmative, strengths-based phrasing
- •Redact names and generalise diagnoses entirely in your browser - they never leave your device (restored in output)
✗ SENScribe Cannot
- •Diagnose conditions - it describes behaviours, not labels
- •Invent details - it only uses what you provide
- •Replace professional judgement - always review output
- •Access external data - it doesn't know the student
- •Answer unrelated questions - it stays focused on SEN
Understanding the Continuum of Support
The NEPS Continuum of Support provides a framework for identifying and responding to students' additional needs. SENScribe adjusts its language based on the level you select.
Level 1: Classroom Support
For students who need some additional support within the regular classroom. Strategies are implemented by the class teacher as part of normal differentiation.
When to use:
- •Mild difficulties responding to standard teaching approaches
- •Needs minor adjustments to classroom routines
- •Benefits from targeted small-group instruction
Level 2: School Support
For students requiring more systematic support, often involving the learning support/resource teacher. A Student Support File is typically created at this level.
When to use:
- •Persistent difficulties despite classroom interventions
- •Requires targeted intervention programmes
- •Benefits from small group or individual support
Level 3: School Support Plus
For students with complex or enduring needs requiring sustained support, often involving external professionals (NEPS, HSE, NCSE).
When to use:
- •Significant and persistent learning difficulties
- •Requires individualised planning and external consultation
- •May need access to NCSE supports (SNA, assistive technology)
For detailed guidance, see the Department of Education Continuum of Support guidelines.
Tips for Better Results
Be Specific
Instead of 'has trouble reading', try 'reads at approximately 6 months below age level, struggles with decoding unfamiliar words'.
Include Context
Mention when and where behaviours occur: 'During whole-class teaching' or 'At unstructured times like yard'.
Note What Works
Include strategies that have helped: 'Responds well to visual timetables' or 'Calms when given movement breaks'.
Describe, Don't Diagnose
Write what you observe, not conditions. Say 'difficulty sustaining attention' rather than 'has ADHD'. SENScribe will use appropriate professional language.
Start with Strengths
Include at least one positive: 'Good at maths but struggles with...' leads to more balanced, neuroaffirmative drafts.
Include All Names
Use real names in your notes - they're redacted in your browser before anything is sent and never leave your device. Write 'Seán's mum says...' rather than 'parent says...' for clearer context.
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