About Beyond the Timetable
What exactly do you do?
We are an independent SEND advice and guidance service. We work with families who are trying to understand what their child needs, navigate the education system, or challenge decisions that are not working for their child. We also work with professionals and fostering agencies. We are not a legal service and we are not a diagnostic service. We are knowledgeable, experienced, and independent and we help people make sense of a system that is genuinely difficult to navigate alone.
Who are you?
We are Maria Kirby and Michael Lindsay, both former teachers and education leaders with over 45 years of combined experience across mainstream schools, specialist provisions, and special schools. You can read more about us on our About Us page.
Are you regulated?
We are not regulated in the way that solicitors or medical professionals are. We are independent education specialists working within an established code of ethics, with professional indemnity insurance in place. We do not diagnose, we do not provide legal advice, and we do not make representations that fall within regulated professional boundaries.
Do you work across England?
Yes. Consultations are conducted remotely so geography is not a barrier. Where we attend meetings in person, travel is discussed in advance.
Getting started
I am not sure whether I need your help. What should I do?
Start with the free 20-minute call. It costs nothing, takes no preparation, and carries no obligation. Many parents find the call useful in its own right. We will listen to where you are and tell you honestly whether we think we can help.
Where do I begin if I do not know what kind of support I need?
Our Where to Begin page is designed exactly for this. It sets out the most common starting points and helps you identify which fits your situation. If none of them quite fits, that is what the free call is for.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
We aim to respond to all enquiries within two working days and to offer a first call or consultation within a week of that. We do not have waiting lists.
Consultations
What happens in a consultation?
A consultation is a focused, time-limited conversation. Before we meet, we ask you to share some background so we can prepare properly. During the session we listen carefully, ask questions, and work through the specific situation with you. At the end you will have greater clarity about what is happening, what your options are, and what to do next. You receive a written summary after every consultation.
How long does a consultation last?
Our consultations are structured around what you need rather than a fixed clock. We are clear about timing in advance. The free introductory call is 20 minutes. Consultations typically run for an hour, though some are scoped differently depending on the situation.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Many parents find it helpful to have a partner, family member, or trusted friend present. Let us know when you book.
Will you tell me what to do?
We will give you honest, informed advice about your options. We will tell you what we think and why. We will not pretend that every situation has a clear answer, but we will always help you leave with a clearer picture than you arrived with.
The SEND system
My child does not have a diagnosis. Can you still help?
Yes. A diagnosis is not required for a child to receive SEND support, and it is not required for us to help you. Many families come to us at the early stages of concern, before any formal process has begun.
My child’s school says it is doing everything it can. Is that true?
It may be. Schools vary enormously in what they are able to offer and how well they communicate it. Part of what we do is help families understand what schools are actually required to provide, what good support looks like, and where the gaps are. Sometimes schools are doing well and families just need clarity. Sometimes they are not.
Do I need a solicitor?
Not necessarily. Many situations are resolved without legal involvement. Where a Tribunal appeal becomes necessary, legal representation is one option but families can also be supported through the process without a solicitor. We work alongside solicitors and advocates on complex cases, and we can help you decide what level of support is right for your situation.
What is the difference between SEN Support and an EHCP?
SEN Support is the help a school provides from its own resources. An EHCP is a legally binding document issued by the local authority for children whose needs cannot be met through SEN Support alone. Our Glossary explains both in plain English, along with most of the other terms you are likely to encounter.
Costs
How much does it cost?
Our consultations are priced at £160 per hour. Work that goes beyond a single consultation such as document support, meeting attendance, or sustained case support is priced to fit the situation. There are no fixed packages. The free 20-minute call carries no charge and no obligation.
Do you offer any concessions?
We operate a two-tier rate structure. The standard rate applies to families. A higher rate applies to organisational and professional clients. We do not currently offer means-tested concessions, though we keep this under review.
How do I pay?
Payment details are confirmed before any chargeable work begins. We do not take payment in advance of a free call.
A question not answered here?
Get in touch. The free call is the simplest way to get a quick, honest answer.