EHCP Explained: A Simple Guide for Parents & School
Navigating the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN) can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs).
This guide is designed to give parents and mainstream school staff a clear, step-by-step overview of EHCPs, how they work, and how they can support neurodivergent children to thrive.
What Is an EHCP?
An Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legally binding document in England that outlines a child or young person’s special educational, health, and social care needs.
It replaces the old “Statement of SEN” and is available for children up to 25 years old. An EHCP ensures:
The child receives the right support in school
Clear educational targets are set
Health and social care needs are considered alongside education
It is particularly important for children with autism, ADHD, or complex SEN needs, but it can support any child who requires additional help to access education fully.
When Should Parents Consider an EHCP?
Parents and schools usually consider requesting an EHCP if a child:
Struggles to make progress despite support in school
Needs personalised interventions
Requires significant adaptations to the curriculum, environment, or learning strategies
Early conversations between parents, teachers, and SEN coordinators can help determine if an EHCP is necessary.
The EHCP Process: Step by Step
1️⃣ Requesting an Assessment
Parents, schools, or health professionals can request a local authority assessment.
Submit your request to your Local Authority’s SEN team
Include reports from teachers, therapists, and healthcare professionals
Explain the child’s needs clearly
Tip for parents: Keep a simple log of your child’s challenges and achievements to support your request.
2️⃣ Assessment Phase
Once the local authority agrees to assess, they will gather information from:
School reports and teacher feedback
Healthcare professionals (speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, paediatricians)
Parents and, where appropriate, the child
The assessment usually takes up to 20 weeks.
3️⃣ Drafting the EHCP
After assessment, a draft EHCP is created. It includes:
Section A: Child’s views, interests, and aspirations
Section B: Special educational needs
Section C: Health needs
Section D: Social care needs
Section E: Outcomes and targets
Section F: Special educational provision required
Section G: Social care provision required
Section H: Placement recommendation
Section I: Advice for professionals
Parents and schools are invited to review and comment on the draft before it is finalised.
4️⃣ Final EHCP and Review
Once finalised, the EHCP is legally binding. Schools must provide the support outlined in the plan.
Reviews take place at least annually, with input from parents, teachers, and specialists to ensure the plan remains effective.
How Mainstream Schools Can Support Children with an EHCP
Mainstream schools play a critical role in helping children achieve their potential. Key strategies include:
Personalised learning plans aligned with EHCP outcomes
Small group or one-to-one support where needed
Use of visual aids and structured routines
Collaboration with therapists and external professionals
Regular communication with parents to monitor progress
Many schools find that understanding the child’s EHCP outcomes allows them to provide targeted support while fostering independence.
How Parents Can Advocate Effectively
Parents can make the EHCP process smoother by:
Keeping clear records of their child’s progress and challenges
Building a relationship with the school SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
Asking questions if sections of the plan are unclear
Requesting additional reports from therapists or educational psychologists
A supportive, collaborative approach between parents and schools ensures the EHCP works for the child, not just as a paperwork exercise.
NeuroKind London Support: Helping Families Navigate SEN
If you’re a parent seeking practical support for neurodivergent children or guidance on EHCPs in London, NeuroKind Support offers:
Specialist advice on implementing EHCP strategies at home and school
LEGO® therapy and visual support tools that align with EHCP outcomes
Book a consultation today to explore how we can support your child’s learning and development.This guide is designed to give parents and mainstream school staff a clear, step-by-step overview of EHCPs,
