Successful transition from Statement of SEN to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

Samantha* has complex special educational needs as a result of a genetic condition. Her needs extend to moderate learning difficulties, together with a number of physical and behavioural challenges.

Samantha was in her early teens when her parents contacted us. Whilst she had a Statement of Special Educational Needs naming a mainstream school, Samantha was unable to attend school full time as a consequence of her needs.

Samantha’s parents had been in discussions with their local authority to place her at a special school but approval for a place had not yet been given, pending further enquiries. Samantha’s current school was doing all it could to support her. Despite the school’s best efforts, Samantha was still struggling to access education.

We met Samantha’s parents at an initial meeting to discuss the content of her Statement of Special Educational Needs. The local authority had indicated that it would move Samantha to an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and we explained the process of transition. We were instructed to assist with the transition and to help secure placement in a special school.

Shortly after we were instructed, the local authority started transition from Statement of Special Educational Needs to an Education, Health and Care Plan.

How we have helped

We attended meetings with Samantha’s parents and the local authority to discuss her transition from a Statement to an Education, Health and Care Plan. We also worked with the family and the local authority to facilitate both an assessment by the local authority of Samantha’s special educational needs; and consideration of a placement in a special school.

We assisted with preparing Section A of the Education, Health and Care Plan. We also made representations about the content of the draft Education, Health and Care Plan when it was issued, including the appropriate educational setting for Samantha.

Samantha was issued with an Education, Health and Care Plan which provided for her special educational needs and named a special school which her parents were happy with.

Samantha is now attending her new school and doing well.

Samantha’s father explained: 

“Special education is a hugely complex area for parents legally - and also emotionally, given its importance to their child. The EHCP provisions require care and understanding to get right.  We are extremely grateful for the help received from Boyes Turner in helping us understand and address these provisions; and to Boyes Turner and the local authority in helping arrange a place for Samantha in a school setting which is right for her specific needs".

*This case study has been seen by our clients before publication. All names have been changed to protect client privacy.