The New SEN Code of Practice
key points
School Action and School Action Plus will be replaced by a single category – SEN Support.
Some pupils who are currently on the SEN register at School Action may no longer be categorised as having Special Educational Needs. This will be determined using new assessment guidelines, and progress will be monitored by their teachers as with all pupils, to ensure a personalised approach to their learning. However, if you would like to discuss your pupil’s progress with the class teacher/Ms Bergel, you will be able to make an appointment to do so.
Pupils who are currently on the SEN register at School Action Plus will be reassessed at their first SEN review meeting of the academic year 2014-15, to check that they meet the criteria for SEN Support and to ensure that we are implementing effective interventions to meet their needs. As is currently the case, you will be invited to these review meetings. I hope you will be able to come as your input is a vital element of this process.
Statements of Special Educational Needs and Learning Disability Assessments will be replaced with Education, Health and Care Plans.
This means that no new Statements of SEN will be issued. From September, Education, Health and Care Plans will be issued instead and these will continue into further education and training and could continue up to the age of 25. Pupils who currently have Statements will be moved over to the new system and will be given Education, Health and Care plans, although this will not happen straight away.
When this does happen, you will have the option of a personal budget. If your son/daughter has a Statement, I have enclosed further information about this.
Summary of changes to School Action, School Action Plus and Statement
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My child is on the SEN register at School Action
S/he will no longer be categorised at having SEN. S/he will be monitored and supported by his/her tutor and subject teachers. -
My child is on the SEN register at School Action Plus
Provided s/he meets the new criteria, s/he will transfer to SEN Support. His/her progress will be reviewed at least 3 times per year and you will be invited to regular review meetings -
My child has a Statement
Support will continue unchanged. The Statement will be replaced by an Education, Health and Care Plan, but this will not happen straight away. When this happens, you will have the option of a Personal Budget.
The Local Offer
Local Authorities will be required to present services available to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs clearly and transparently in a single place.
In Oxfordshire, this is already underway and can be accessed online at
http://fisd-disability.oxfordshire.gov.uk/kb5/oxfordshire/fsd/disabilities.page