Autism & ADHD Referrals
Sometimes parents or carers ask about an assessment for autism or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
If you are thinking about a referral, this page explains how the process works and what to expect.
It is important to know that support in school is based on your child’s needs. We do not need a diagnosis to put support in place.
Step 1: Check which NHS area your GP is in
The referral pathway depends on your child’s registered GP surgery:
- Cambridgeshire GP → Cambridgeshire & Peterborough pathway
- Hertfordshire GP → Hertfordshire pathway
If you are unsure, please contact your child’s GP surgery.
Hertfordshire GP
Referrals in Hertfordshire are submitted by the GP.
If your child’s GP is in Hertfordshire:
- You will need to contact your GP directly to request a referral.
- The GP will provide the relevant forms.
- School will complete any school-based evidence required, if requested.
Full guidance can be found here.
Cambridgeshire GP
Cambridgeshire uses the Neurodevelopmental Pathway.
The pathway differs depending on your child’s age:
- Under 5 (before 1st May in Reception) → Early Support Pathway
- Primary Aged (5–11) → Primary Neurodevelopmental Pathway
- Year 6 (from summer term onwards) → YOUnited pathway
For Cambridgeshire referrals:
- School will complete the referral with input from parents/carers.
- For ADHD only, parents/carers must complete a parenting course. Course information can be found here.
Full NHS guidance can be found here.
In any instance, please speak to your child’s class teacher first. They will be able to explain the process and next steps.
Waiting Times and Right to Choose
Neurodevelopmental assessments (autism and ADHD) currently have long waiting lists (often over a year).
During this time, school will continue to review and adapt support.
If you would like to explore the NHS Right to Choose pathway, please contact your child’s GP. Helpful guidance and estimated waiting times for ADHD and autism assessments can be found here.
