What is an EHCP and What Role Does it Play for SEN Students?

Positively impacting SEN Learning Journeys

For children with Special Educational Needs, getting the right support is crucial to their development and success in education. One of the most important tools available to help meet their needs is an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). But what exactly is an EHCP, and how does it support SEN students? This guide will walk you through the essentials of EHCPs, their role in providing tailored support, and how they can positively impact a child’s learning journey.

What is an EHCP?

An Education, Health and Care Plan is a legally binding document that outlines a child or young person’s special educational, health, and social care needs. It provides personalised support to ensure that they can access education in a way that meets their individual requirements.

EHCPs were introduced in 2014 under the Children and Families Act, replacing the previous Statement of Special Educational Needs framework in England. Unlike the old system, EHCPs take a more holistic approach by covering not just educational needs, but also health and social care elements that may affect a child’s development.

According to the UK Department for Education, over 517,000 children in England had an EHCP in place as of 2023, highlighting the growing demand for tailored SEN support.

Who is Eligible for an EHCP?

A child or young person (up to the age of 25) may qualify for an EHCP if they have:

• A significant and long-term special educational need that cannot be met by standard support available in schools or colleges.
• A need for additional, tailored provision beyond what is typically offered in mainstream settings.
• A condition that affects their ability to access learning effectively, such as autism, ADHD, or severe learning difficulties.

Parents, teachers, or healthcare professionals can request an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) from the local authority to determine whether an EHCP is necessary.

The Key Components of an EHCP

An EHCP is a comprehensive document that includes:

1. The Child’s Needs – A detailed outline of the child’s educational, health, and social care needs.
2. Desired Outcomes – Goals that the plan aims to achieve to support the child’s development and future independence.
3. Support Provision – Specific interventions and resources required to meet the child’s needs, such as speech therapy, one-to-one teaching assistants, or assistive technology.
4. Placement – The most suitable educational setting for the child, whether that be mainstream school, special school, or a specialist provision.
5. Parental and Child Involvement – An opportunity for families and the child to have their views and aspirations included in the plan.

EHCPs are reviewed annually to ensure they continue to meet the child’s evolving needs.

The Benefits of an EHCP for SEN Students

An EHCP provides several benefits, including:

• Personalised Support: Tailored interventions to meet the child’s specific needs.
• Legal Protection: Schools and local authorities are legally obliged to follow the support outlined in the plan.
• Access to Resources: Funding and specialist support, such as therapy services and assistive tools.
• Improved Outcomes: Research shows that targeted, personalised support can significantly enhance the academic and social development of SEN students.

According to the National Autistic Society, children with autism who receive appropriate interventions through EHCPs have better educational outcomes and social integration.

How to Apply for an EHCP

Applying for an EHCP involves the following steps:

1. Request an EHC Needs Assessment – This can be initiated by parents, schools, or healthcare professionals.
2. Assessment Process – The local authority gathers information from professionals such as educational psychologists and healthcare providers.
3. Drafting the EHCP – If the assessment confirms the need, a draft EHCP is created and shared with the parents for feedback.
4. Final EHCP Issued – Once agreed, the final EHCP is issued and implemented.

If a request for an EHCP is denied, parents have the right to appeal the decision through the SEND Tribunal.

How eQuoo Can Support Students with SEN

In addition to the support provided by an EHCP, helping SEN students develop emotional resilience and communication skills is vital. eQuoo, our evidence-based emotional fitness game, offers an engaging way for children to build these essential life skills.

Through interactive storytelling and psychological techniques, SEN students can:

• Build confidence to express their needs effectively in school settings.
• Develop emotional regulation strategies to cope with stress and anxiety.
• Improve their problem-solving abilities and resilience in social situations.
• Strengthen their interpersonal skills to foster positive relationships with peers and teachers.

By incorporating eQuoo into their routine, students with SEN can gain valuable skills that complement the provisions outlined in their EHCP.

Conclusion

An EHCP plays a crucial role in ensuring that SEN students receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially. It provides a structured, legally binding framework that aligns educational, health, and social care services to meet individual needs effectively.

For parents, carers and teachers, understanding the EHCP process and collaborating with professionals can make a significant difference in a child’s development.

To find out more about eQuoo, get in touch using the form below to earn more about how we can support you.