Finding a school and applying for a place

Most children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will get a school place in the same way as children without SEND, but there is a different system for children with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan – both are discussed below.

When exploring options of schools, it is often useful to:

• Read through information on the school’s websites – including their SEN Information Report and policies (Behaviour, SEN and Supporting Pupil’s Medical Needs, for example)
• Arrange visits to schools to get both first-hand experience of what they have to offer and to provide an opportunity to ask questions

Things to consider/ask on a school visit

First impressions:

• On your first contact with the school and during the visit do you feel welcomed?
• How big is the site? Is it safe and secure?
• Would you like your child to spend their school days there?

Support:

• How does the school prepare for a child’s admission to the school?
• What extra activities does the school provide at lunch time/after school? What are the supervision arrangements?
• How does the school’s discipline system adapt to take account of the specific needs and difficulties of children? Is positive behaviour praised?
• How does the school help children socialise and make friends?
• Are there any particular areas of expertise/provision in school?

Communication:

• How is information on a child’s needs shared with school staff?
• How does the school communicate relevant information to parents and encourage parents to communicate with them?
• What arrangements are there for you, as a parent, to discuss your child’s progress and contribute to target setting and planning and learning opportunities, including homework?
• Are there opportunities to meet with parents of other children at school, e.g., through organised meetings?

Learning:

• What teaching methods and strategies are used to aid children’s learning?
• How many children would be in your child’s class?
• How many members of staff (i.e., teachers, learning support assistants) would be in your child’s class?
• How is the school day/week structured and how will the teaching and learning in class meet your child’s needs?
• What are the school’s expectations of their children and parents?

Additional:

• It may be helpful to explore the school’s behaviour and anti-bullying policies. Do they match your expectations of your child?
• If your child has a medical condition/disability, you may also way to share information regarding what help your child requires as a result of their medical condition/disability – including what equipment they need access to, and any staff training required.
• If your child has an EHC Plan and you are exploring a special school:
  • What area(s) of need does the school cater for – is there a suitable peer group for your child?
  • Are there any therapies offered on site?
  • What communication methods (e.g., Makaton) are used?
  • Are there any specialist facilities (e.g., sensory room) on site?
  • Does the school have links with other schools? If so, what opportunities does this provide for children?