Decisions about primary school places for children with an education, health and care plan

Considering parents’ preferences and identifying other schools

The Integrated SEND Service multi-agency panel we will consider parental preferences. We may also identify other schools that would meet your child's identified special educational needs. If we identify additional schools, we will consult with them and notify you.

Reasons why we might not agree to name your preferred school

We can’t always offer you your preferred school. However, if your child has an EHC plan, we must name your preferred school, unless it is:

• unsuitable for the child's age, ability, aptitude and the special educational needs set out in their EHC plan

• the child's attendance is not compatible with the efficient education of other children in the school

• the placement is an inefficient use of our resources.

Consulting the schools

Legally, we must consult with the governing body, principal or proprietor of the educational institution. The consulted schools will consider the child or young person's identified special educational needs carefully to make sure:

• the school can meet the child’s needs and support them with achieving their agreed outcomes

• the child is placed appropriately in the school.

The schools will let us know if they can meet the child’s need and if it is an appropriate placement. Schools have 15 days to respond.

In December, we will consider the views received through the consultation process before making a final decision on naming a school place. If the school named is not a parent’s or carer’s preferred school, a meeting can be arranged to discuss the next steps and name the most appropriate placement.

Naming a primary school for your child

By 15 February 2024, we will send you an amended EHC plan with the named primary school place. We will also send a copy to your child's current educational setting and future school.