What Makes a Great EHCP?

A Parent’s Guide to Getting the Best for Your SEND Child

If you're a parent of a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), you may be familiar with the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). While the process of getting one in place can seem like a lot of paperwork, meetings, and jargon, it’s one of the most important tools you have to ensure your child receives the right support at school, home, and in the wider community.

So, what makes a great EHCP? Simply put, a great EHCP is one that puts your child at the heart of everything. It should reflect their own individual needs, strengths, and aspirations, and provide clear, actionable steps for everyone involved in their education and wellbeing. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your child’s EHCP is the best it can be.

1. It’s Tailored to Your Child

Every child is unique, and that’s especially true for SEND children. A great EHCP isn’t a one-size-fits-all document – it should be as individual as your child is. The plan should highlight their strengths as well as the areas where they need support.

Equally important, the plan should outline specific, practical support for areas where your child faces challenges. Does your child need extra time or alternative arrangements in exams? Will they benefit from some time being supported by teaching assistant? Does their sensory processing need to be accommodated and understood by adults in school?

2. It’s Written in Clear, Understandable Language

EHCPs are often full of technical terms, which can make them confusing for parents. A great EHCP should be easy to understand. There’s no reason why the language used shouldn’t be straightforward, clear, and accessible. If you don’t understand something in the plan, ask for clarification.

You should feel comfortable asking the local authority or professionals to rewrite any section of the plan that feels too complicated. They’re there to help, and it’s important that you understand every detail of your child’s EHCP. If you would like support with either requesting an EHCP or reviewing a current EHCP The SEN Experthas service that can support you.

3. It Includes Realistic and Achievable Goals

A good EHCP should set clear, measurable and realistic goals for your child’s progress. These goals should be tailored to their specific needs. For example, if your child has speech and language difficulties, the goal might be to improve their communication skills through regular speech therapy sessions. The key here is that the goals should be achievable—small, manageable steps that will help your child progress in a meaningful way. Moreover, the plan should outline the necessary support and resources, including funding, that will help your child meet those goals.

4. It Involves You as a Parent

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else. A great EHCP will take your knowledge, concerns, and aspirations into account. You should be fully involved in the process, from the initial assessment to the final plan. The local authority is required to consult you, and you should be encouraged to share your views and ask questions. You should also be invited to any reviews. Remember, you are your child’s biggest advocate. A good EHCP should reflect your voice and ensure that your child's needs are met in a way that works for them and your family. The SEN Expert is on hand to support you with the EHCP process and also has an advocacy service, should you require it.

5. It’s Holistic and Covers All Areas of Your Child’s Life

A great EHCP doesn’t just focus on education. It takes a holistic approach, addressing your child’s health, social, and emotional needs as well. Does your child need additional support with mental health? Do they need help with social skills or building friendships? A comprehensive EHCP will take all these factors into account, ensuring your child receives support that extends beyond the classroom.

Additionally, the plan should outline how professionals across education, health, and social care will work together to support your child. This integrated approach is essential in ensuring consistency in support across all areas of your child’s life.

6. It’s Reviewed Regularly

An EHCP isn’t a one off or one time kind document. A great EHCP is flexible and adaptable, with regular reviews to ensure that the support in place is still relevant and effective. Children’s needs can change over time, and their EHCP should evolve with them. Regular reviews (usually annually) provide an opportunity to assess progress, discuss new goals, and make any necessary adjustments.

If your child’s needs change before the annual review, you can request an early review. Keeping the plan updated ensures that your child continues to receive the right support at the right time.

7. It’s About Your Child’s Future

Finally, a great EHCP isn’t just about today—it’s about the future. The plan should look ahead to your child’s aspirations and help them move towards independence and adulthood. Whether it’s further education, employment, or independent living, a good EHCP will include steps that prepare your child for the next stage of their journey.

Creating a great EHCP takes time, effort, and collaboration, but it’s worth it. By making sure the plan reflects your child’s unique needs and strengths, you’re laying the foundation for their future success. And remember, you’re not alone in this process—there are plenty of resources and support available to help you every step of the way. The SEN Expert can help with all parts of the EHCP process from supporting application to reviewing the document and attending annual reviews.

What’s most important is that your child’s EHCP reflects them—their personality, their goals, and their potential. By working together with the professionals involved, you can help create a plan that supports your child in the best possible way.