Finding the right school for a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be overwhelming. If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you have the legal right to request a school that meets their needs—but how do you actually find that school, and what do you say when you do?
Here’s a practical guide to help you search for, approach, and communicate with specialist settings when you’re looking for a placement.
1. Understand What You’re Looking For
Before searching, take time to clearly understand your child’s needs as detailed in Section B and the provision listed in Section F of their EHCP. This will help you identify the kind of setting that’s most suitable—for example:
- Autism-specific provision?
- SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) support?
- Speech and language-focused?
- A residential or day school?
Knowing your child’s profile and the type of support they need will guide your search.
2. Search for Specialist Settings
Start by checking:
- Your Local Authority’s Local Offer – Most councils list specialist settings on their SEND pages.
- OFSTED reports – For insight into how schools support SEND learners.
- Word of mouth – SEND support groups on Facebook or local forums can offer honest feedback.
- AskEllie.co.uk – Our site includes tools and advice on how to search and compare schools.
Keep a spreadsheet or simple list of schools you come across with notes like:
- Type of school
- Distance/travel time
- Capacity and admissions policy
- Your gut feeling from any contact or reviews
3. Contacting Schools: What to Say
Once you’ve shortlisted some schools, reach out to them directly. You can call or email—but emails are often easier for keeping a paper trail.
Here’s a basic structure for your message:
Hi, I’m the parent of a [child’s age] year-old with an EHCP. We are currently looking for a setting that can meet their needs as described in their plan. I wondered if you are currently accepting referrals or visits, and if you’d be willing to consider our child. I’m happy to send over the EHCP and any supporting reports.
Thank you so much, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Keep it polite, clear, and brief. Schools are busy, but many are happy to talk and even set up a visit.
4. What to Ask During a Visit or Call
If a school agrees to speak or meet with you, come prepared with key questions:
- What kinds of needs do you specialise in?
- What does a typical school day look like for a child like mine?
- How do you support transitions and anxiety?
- Can you provide 1:1 support if needed?
- What is the current availability or waiting time?
Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions—you deserve to know how your child will be supported.
5. If a School Says They Can Meet Needs
If a school agrees they can meet your child’s needs, you can request it be named in Section I of the EHCP during an annual review or mediation. If the local authority refuses, you have the right to appeal.
Ask the school if they are willing to confirm in writing that they can meet your child’s needs—this can strengthen your case.
6. If No School Feels Right Yet
Sometimes, none of the local options feel suitable. Keep searching. You can:
- Ask your LA’s SEND case officer for suggestions
- Look beyond your local area (the LA must consider out-of-area placements if no local one is suitable)
- Consider independent or non-maintained special schools (NMSS)
And remember: if your child’s current provision is not meeting need, the local authority has a legal duty to act.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right setting can take time and perseverance, but you do have rights. Be persistent, stay organised, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or challenge decisions.
If you need help with wording emails, requesting placements, or appealing LA decisions, come by and see us at AskEllie.co.uk. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
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