SEND Code of Practice: a summary

Last reviewed on 9 November 2021
School types: All · School phases: All
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Use this summary as a starting point to understanding some key parts of the SEND Code of Practice, so you can comply with this statutory document.

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Contents

  1. It's statutory for all schools
  2. Involving parents and young people in decisions
  3. Mainstream school duties
  4. Assessments, EHC plans and personal budgets
  5. The local offer

It's statutory for all schools

All schools must have regard to the SEND Code of Practice when taking decisions relating to pupils with SEND.

This is explained on page 13 of the SEND Code of Practice and section 77 of the Children and Families Act 2014.

Involving parents and young people in decisions

Local authorities (LAs) must ensure that children, their parents and young people are involved in discussions and decisions about their individual support and about local provision.

Schools, early years providers and colleges should also take steps to make sure that young people and parents are actively supported in:

  • Contributing to needs assessments
  • Developing and reviewing education health and care (EHC) plans

This is set out in paragraphs 1.3 and 1.4 on page 20 of the code and section 19 of the Children and Families Act 2014.

Mainstream school duties

Maintained schools and academies that are not special schools Maintained nursery schools 16 to 19 academies Alternative

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