Everything you need to prepare for your child's annual EHCP review — what to bring, what to ask.
5 min read
The LA must review your child's EHCP at least every 12 months. Start preparing 4-6 weeks before. Gather evidence of your child's progress (or lack of it), any new assessments or reports, examples of provision that has worked well or poorly, and your child's own views. Write down what you want to achieve from the review. Advice and information gathered for the review should be circulated at least 2 weeks before the meeting.
Bring a copy of the current EHCP with notes on each section, recent school reports, any private assessments or professional letters, a written list of your concerns and questions, and a written statement from your child (if they cannot attend). Also bring a notepad to record what is agreed. Having everything in writing makes it harder for promises to be forgotten.
Has each outcome in the EHCP been met? If not, why not? Has each specified provision been delivered? Are there any new needs that should be added to Section B? Does Section F need updating to reflect current provision? Does the named placement remain suitable? Is a change of placement needed? What has changed in the past year that affects the plan?
The school must send a report of the meeting to the LA within 2 weeks. Within 4 weeks of the meeting, the LA must decide whether to keep the EHCP as it is, amend it, or cease to maintain it. If they decide to amend, they should start the amendment process without delay; once an amendment notice is sent, the final amended plan must be issued as quickly as possible and within 8 weeks of that notice. If they decide no changes are needed or propose ceasing the plan, you have a right to appeal.
You do not have to wait 12 months. You can request an early review if your child's needs have changed significantly, the current plan is clearly not working, a change of placement is urgently needed, or the provision specified is not being delivered. The LA should agree to an early review if there is a good reason. If they refuse, write to the SEN team explaining why an early review is necessary.
Last reviewed: 18 June 2026
