What is an annual review?

An EHCP Annual Review ensures that the EHCP is still relevant. It should help your child progress towards their goals. The Annual Review is a chance to look at the plan closely. You can propose any changes you want to the plan. This includes changes to the support provided or the outcomes.

The purpose of the review is to:  

  • bring together yours and your child’s views as well as the views of everyone else who helps your child,
  • review how well the outcomes set in the plan, are being achieved,
  • consider whether the provision and support detailed in the EHCP is still effective and relevant and to discuss whether it is working or needs to change, and
  • set new targets if necessary. 

 

What is the aim of the EHCP review meeting?

The aim of the EHCP review meeting is to show the progress of the child/young person has made and to review the outcomes and provision currently in place.  The emphasis is on the child/young person's progress towards achieving the outcomes as specified in the EHCP and to consider whether the outcomes and the steps toward these remain appropriate.  It must highlight what is working and/or if there are any areas that need more support or require amendment.

Where the child or young person does not attend an educational provider, the local authority will make arrangements to organise and convene the EHCP review meeting.

Can a review happen more often than once a year?

An interim review can be called at other times for example: 

  • Your child isn’t making the progress that was expected.
  • Their situation is deteriorating.
  • There is a threat of exclusion.
  • Your child’s needs have changed a lot since the plan was last agreed.
  • The school feels it is unable to meet the child’s needs.
  • In Early Years, an EHCP should be reviewed every 3 to 6 months if needed.

Amending an EHCP

  • An amendment to an EHCP will be necessary when significant changes are needed in the current EHCP.
  • EHCPs will always be amended in preparation for a move into the next phase of education, for example, primary to secondary education. 
  • The EHCP may be amended at other times. This could be following a change of address or school. 

The SEND Code of Practice states that EHCPs are not expected to be amended on a very frequent basis. Shape 

When an EHCP has been amended following an annual (or interim) review, you have 15 days to respond to the amended draft plan to:  

  • confirm you are happy with the proposed changes
  • inform us if you would like to make any written comments or changes to the proposed amendments
  • contact us if you would like to meet with a member of the SEND team to discuss the proposed changes,
  • confirm your preference for school placement. This may be continuing in their current placement, and
  • if you require support understanding the proposed changes, contact the SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
  • SENDIASS advice is impartial and independent