Choosing a school for a child with SEND
The process for applying for a school place is different for pupils with Education Health and Care (EHC) plans to those who have special educational needs without an EHC Plan.
You can only apply for a Designated Specialist Provision (DSP) or a special school if your child or young person has an EHC Plan.
Child with special educational needs without an EHC plan
You will need to apply for a school in the standard way using the online application and submitting your choices by the deadline date. The Choice Advice Service can help with completing the applications and share guidance in choosing a school.
Child undergoing statutory assessment
As the statutory assessment has not yet been completed, you will need to contact your Education Health Care Inclusion Officer (EHCIO) for further advice.
If your child has an EHCP
When your child starts the Autumn term, the Special Education Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at your child’s current school will start an annual review to establish which school they will attend the following year. The annual review meeting will give you an opportunity to state clearly what you want for your child.
Choosing a school
We must accept a preference for a school unless after consultation with the school it is decided that:
- It is unsuitable for the child's age, ability, aptitude or SEND
- Placing the child there is not compatible with the efficient use of resources or the education of others
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