Understanding SEN Support vs EHCPs, what schools must provide, and how to ask for more.
10 min read
Most children with SEND do not have an EHCP. Instead, they receive SEN Support through their school. This follows the graduated approach: Assess (the school identifies your child's needs), Plan (they agree on outcomes and support), Do (they put the support in place), Review (they check progress and adjust). This cycle happens at least termly. You should be invited to every review meeting.
Under the Children and Families Act 2014, schools have a duty to use their 'best endeavours' to ensure children with SEND get the support they need. This includes making reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010. For pupils with high needs, schools are normally expected to fund up to the first GBP6,000 of additional SEN support from their notional SEN budget before top-up funding is considered. This is not a cash amount given to each child, so ask the school what support is actually being put in place and how it will be reviewed.
Mainstream schools and maintained nursery schools must have a SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). Their role is to oversee SEND provision, coordinate support, and be the main point of contact for families. Ask to meet the SENCo - they should be able to explain what support is available, how it will be delivered, and how progress will be measured. New-to-role SENCOs must complete the mandatory SENCO qualification within 3 years.
If your child is not making adequate progress despite good SEN Support, it may be time to request an EHC needs assessment. Signs that SEN Support is insufficient include: your child is falling further behind their peers, the support they need is beyond what the school can reasonably provide from their own budget, your child needs input from multiple professionals on an ongoing basis, or the school itself suggests that an EHCP may be needed.
Request a meeting with the SENCo or headteacher to discuss your concerns. Come prepared with evidence — examples of your child's difficulties, any professional reports, and notes on what is and is not working. If the school is not responsive, put your concerns in writing. You have the right to request an EHC needs assessment from the LA directly — the school does not need to agree.
Last reviewed: 18 June 2026
