To ask the Minister of Education to detail how IQ tests are used in determining the level of support required for a young person with a statement of special educational need transitioning out of school.

IQ or cognitive testing is just one element of a comprehensive Educational Psychology assessment and should never be viewed in isolation. While cognitive assessments can provide useful information about a young person’s intellectual functioning, including their strengths and difficulties in areas such as verbal reasoning, processing speed, and working memory, they do not capture the full picture of their learning needs or daily functioning.

Educational Psychologists take a holistic approach, considering a wide range of factors beyond IQ scores when carrying out an assessment. These include adaptive functioning, for example, independent living skills, social communication, and problem-solving, academic attainment, social-emotional well-being, and environmental influences such as family, school support, and access to resources. By integrating these factors through a process of psychological formulation, Educational Psychologists develop a more meaningful understanding of the young person’s needs, ensuring that recommendations are both practical and person centred.

This is particularly relevant when determining the level of support required for a young person with a Statement of Special Educational Needs as they transition out of school. Decisions about post-school placements, vocational training, or employment support must consider how the young person functions in real-life situations, rather than relying solely on standardised test scores. For instance, two individuals with similar IQ scores may require very different levels of support depending on their adaptive skills, mental health, and coping strategies.

By using a comprehensive assessment approach, Educational Psychologists can provide recommendations that better reflect the young person’s strengths, challenges, and future goals, ensuring they receive the appropriate support to thrive in adulthood.