Finding the right school for a child with special educational needs can feel overwhelming. This guide explains the types of SEND provision available, how the EHCP process works, and what to look for when choosing a school.
Last updated: April 2026 · 9 min read
SEND provision in England ranges from light-touch support within a mainstream classroom to fully specialist settings. The right placement depends on the nature and severity of the child's needs.
The most common setting. The school's SENCo coordinates additional support such as small-group interventions, differentiated teaching, or specialist resources. No EHCP is required.
Pupils with an EHCP can attend mainstream schools with funded support. This may include a teaching assistant, specialist equipment, or therapies delivered in school.
Specialist units within mainstream schools. Pupils spend some time in the unit with specialist staff and some time in mainstream classes. Places are usually allocated via EHCP.
Schools designed entirely for children with SEND. They have very small classes (6-12 pupils), highly trained staff, and adapted facilities. An EHCP is normally required for admission.
For pupils who cannot attend mainstream or special school, often due to health needs or exclusion. Includes pupil referral units, hospital schools, and online provision.
Fee-paying schools specialising in specific needs such as autism, dyslexia, or social, emotional and mental health difficulties. Often funded by the local authority via an EHCP.
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legally binding document for children and young people aged 0–25 with significant special educational needs. It replaced the old “Statement of SEN” in 2014 under the Children and Families Act.
An EHCP sets out the child's needs across education, health, and social care. It specifies the outcomes to be achieved, the provision required to achieve them, and names the school or setting where the child will be educated. Local authorities are legally obligated to deliver the provision described in the plan.
As of 2025, over 575,000 children and young people in England have an EHCP — a number that has grown significantly in recent years. The most common primary need categories are autism spectrum condition, speech/language/communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health difficulties.
The EHCP process has defined legal timescales. Understanding each stage helps you navigate the system effectively.
The best school for a child with SEND depends on the nature of their needs, the level of support required, and the child's own preferences. Here are key considerations:
Ask about the SENCo's qualifications, experience with your child's specific needs, and what ongoing SEND training all staff receive.
Look for evidence that the school genuinely values SEND pupils: in displays, in leadership attitudes, in how staff talk about inclusion during your visit.
How does the school differentiate the curriculum? Is it a watered-down version or a genuinely adapted programme that maintains high expectations?
What emotional and wellbeing support is available? Is there a learning mentor, counsellor, or sensory room? How are transitions handled?
Ask for data on SEND pupils' progress. How do their outcomes compare? What percentage of SEND pupils achieve expected standards?
The SEND Code of Practice (2015) gives parents significant rights. Understanding these can help you advocate effectively for your child.
Any parent can request an EHC needs assessment in writing. The local authority must respond within 6 weeks.
You can request any state-funded school, including mainstream, special, or an academy. The LA must comply unless it is unsuitable or incompatible with efficient education of others.
You can appeal to the SEND Tribunal if the LA refuses to assess, refuses to issue a plan, or you disagree with the contents of the plan.
Before appealing, you must consider mediation (though it is not compulsory to attend). Free mediation services are available through your local authority.
SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. It covers a wide range of needs including learning difficulties, communication and interaction needs (such as autism), social, emotional and mental health needs, and physical or sensory disabilities.
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document for children and young people aged 0-25 who need more support than is available through standard SEN provision. It describes the child's needs, the outcomes sought, and the specific provision required — including naming a school.
You can request an EHC needs assessment from your local authority in writing. The local authority has 6 weeks to decide whether to assess. If they agree, the full assessment takes up to 20 weeks. Parents, schools, or health professionals can make the initial request.
Yes. The law gives parents a right to request a mainstream place. Mainstream schools must use their best endeavours to meet the child's needs. Many children with EHCPs attend mainstream schools successfully, often with additional support.
A special school caters specifically for children with SEND who need more specialist support than a mainstream school can provide. They have smaller classes, specialist staff, and adapted environments. Admission usually requires an EHCP.
SEN Support is the level of provision for children who have special educational needs but do not have an EHCP. The school's SENCo coordinates additional support such as small-group interventions, specialist teaching, or adapted resources.
Yes. If the local authority refuses to carry out an EHC needs assessment, or refuses to issue an EHCP after assessment, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability). Many appeals are successful.
Ask about the SENCo's qualifications and availability, the school's experience with your child's specific needs, how they adapt the curriculum, what specialist resources are available, and how they measure progress for SEND pupils. Observe how staff interact with SEND pupils during your visit.
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