Free EHCP Compass worksheet
Observations and support log
Record what you notice over time. Describe what happened without guessing why, then note the effect and any support tried.
Print a blank copy, or type your notes below and then print or save as PDF. Typed notes stay in this page’s memory and are not saved to your account. Refreshing or leaving this page clears them.
How to use this observations log
Use this worksheet to keep a practical record of what helps your child or young person take part at home, at school or in the community. Short, specific notes can help you prepare for a conversation with a teacher, SENCO or other professional. You do not need to write an entry every day.
- Date and situation: note when and where something happened, including the activity and any change to the usual routine.
- What I observed: describe what you saw or heard. Separate your observations from what someone else told you, and include the child’s own words where useful.
- Effect on participation: explain what was easier or harder to join in with, and for how long. Record positive experiences as well as difficulties.
- Support tried: say what someone did to help, who provided it and when. Avoid guessing a diagnosis or the reason for a behaviour.
- What helped: record what changed after the support. It is fine to write “not sure yet” and return to it later.
- Related document: add a report title, date or reference if relevant, so you can find it again.
A fictional example
Situation: Monday, starting a classroom writing activity after break.
Observation: The child covered their ears and said “too loud”. They did not start writing for ten minutes.
Support: The teacher offered a quieter desk and showed the first task step on a card.
What helped: The child moved to the desk, started the first sentence and stayed with the activity for five minutes. We have not yet tried this on another day.
This example shows how to record an observation; it is not a recommendation for every child. Your notes can support a discussion but do not replace a professional assessment.
Your observations and support log
| Date and situation | What I observed | Effect on participation | Support tried | What helped | Related document |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Use your notes to prepare for a meeting
Look for patterns across your entries and choose a few examples to discuss. Ask what support can be tried next, who will arrange it and when you will review whether it helps. Share only information needed for that discussion and keep your saved copy somewhere private.
Prepare your meeting questions or record the actions agreed at your meeting.