• Four children jumping in the air over large hay bales in an open field with trees and a cloudy sky in the background.

    Strategic Support for Balanced, Confident and Happy Young People

A man and a young boy are sitting at a dining table, smiling and enjoying a meal together. The table has various breakfast foods like waffles, strawberries, and orange juice. There is a large green plant in the background and sunlight coming through a window.

Worried about your child's needs, school support or EHCP?

You're in the right place.

Whether your child has recently received a diagnosis, is struggling to attend school, isn't getting the support they need or you're unsure where to begin with an EHCP, you don't have to navigate it alone.

I provide practical, personalised guidance to help you understand your child's needs, make sense of the SEND system and take the next steps with confidence.

How We Can Support You

A father and son smiling and enjoying breakfast together at a table with various foods including strawberries and waffles, in a bright room with large windows and a green indoor plant.

School isn't meeting my child's needs

You're concerned that your child isn't receiving the support they need, but you're unsure what to ask for or how to approach the school.

School & SEND Support →

An adult man and a young girl are washing dishes together at the kitchen sink. The girl is wearing a pink sleeveless top and has curly hair tied back with a red hair tie. The man is wearing a beige shirt. There are potted plants on the counter near the sink.

I don't know whether my child needs an EHCP

You're hearing about EHCPs but don't know whether an assessment is appropriate, how to request one or what evidence you need.

EHCP Advice & Assessment Requests →

A woman with long blonde hair and glasses and a young girl with blonde hair and a pink sweatshirt are sitting at a table looking at a laptop. The woman appears to be explaining something to the girl. There are papers and a pen on the table, and a floral-patterned laptop in the foreground.

I need help completing EHCP paperwork

You've been asked for parental views, received a draft EHCP or have an Annual Review approaching, and want to make sure your child's needs are clearly communicated.

EHCP Forms & Documentation Support →

A woman and a young boy inside a cozy indoor play tent, reading a book together on the floor. The woman is smiling at the boy, and he appears to be happy and engaged.

My child has received an ADHD or autism diagnosis or you suspect they may need one

You have a diagnosis or you suspect your child may be neurodivergent, but what does it mean for everyday life, school and the support your child might need?

Neurodivergent Parent Support →

A woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair, wearing a black blazer and white blouse, standing outdoors in front of green leafy trees and plants.

Founder of Sladen Advisory

I'm Melissa, a qualified teacher and former Deputy Headteacher within specialist SEMH/SEND education.

Throughout my career, I've worked with children, families, schools and Local Authorities, and I've seen how difficult it can be for parents to navigate a system that often feels complicated and overwhelming.

I established Sladen Advisory because I wanted to use that experience to provide more direct, personalised support to the families who need it most.

My approach is practical, compassionate and centred around your child. I'll help you understand what's happening, identify what support may be needed and work out your next steps — without unnecessary jargon or judgement.

You know your child. I'm here to help you make sure their needs are understood.

Meet Melissa

Contact Us

Interested in working together or have questions? Fill out the form with some basic details and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!