SIAS Assessment

The Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy is the Department of Basic Education's framework for identifying learners who need additional support. Every public school in South Africa is required to implement SIAS.

What is an SBST?

Every school must have a School-based Support Team (SBST) — a group of educators who coordinate support for learners with barriers to learning. The team typically includes the principal, a Learning Support Educator (LSE), and class teachers.

How to request an assessment

1. Write to the school principal. Request a formal meeting with the SBST. Do this in writing (email or letter) and keep a copy.
2. Attend the SBST meeting. As a parent or caregiver you have the right to attend and participate. The SBST will complete a support plan.
3. Level 1 support. The school implements classroom-level interventions for 6–8 weeks.
4. Level 2 support. If Level 1 is insufficient, the District Support Team (DST) becomes involved and may refer for specialist assessment.
5. Level 3 support. Specialist assessment by a psychologist, occupational therapist, or speech therapist. This may lead to placement recommendations.

Your rights during the process

• You must be consulted and give written consent before any assessment.
• You have the right to receive the assessment report and to request a second opinion.
• No child may be excluded from school pending assessment.
• The process must be completed within a reasonable time — follow up if you hear nothing after 6 weeks.

If the school refuses

If a school refuses to initiate the SIAS process, contact the District Director of Education in your area. You can also call the DBE helpline on 0800 202 933 (Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm).