Educational options

If your child has an Educational, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) the school application and placement process will be dealt with by the Special Educational Needs Team for your area.

Most children with an EHCP can, with appropriate support, have their needs met in any local school. Occasionally, a child's needs are such that they can only be met at a particular school. This may, for example, be a school which has been adapted to cater for children with mobility problems. In these circumstances it is the local authority's responsibility to offer your child a place in a school that is best able to meet their needs. This school will be named in your child's EHCP and your child would be given priority when allocating places.

If you need further information about the school named in your child's EHCP or you are new and moving to the area you can contact the SEND Team at: SENDSubmission@cumberland.gov.uk or call: 01946 506 211 (Allerdale and Copeland); 01228 226 842 (Carlisle).

Choosing an education provider for a child or young person with SEND

Most children with special educational needs (SEN), including those with an Education, Health and Care Plan, have their needs met in a mainstream school.   

For some children with complex needs, a mainstream school may not be the best fit. Different placements can sometimes better support and cater to particular needs. It's important to consider individual requirements. Education should be in an environment that supports inclusive learning. 

Find out more about the options that may be available. Please note: Not all the options are open to everyone. It depends on individual needs and circumstances. 

For more information about any of the options, speak to your school special educational needs coordinator (SENCo), Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) Coordinator or SEND Information, Advice and Support (SENDIAS) Service. They will be able to provide you with further guidance.