Choose a mainstream school for your child with SEND
Most children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) attend mainstream schools.
Mainstream schools have a responsibility to support children with SEND, helping them to learn, achieve and take part in school life alongside their peers. Every child is different, and the right school for your child will depend on their individual needs, strengths and circumstances.
Choosing a school can feel like a big decision, but many children with SEND thrive in mainstream settings. Visiting schools, talking to staff and finding out how they support children with SEND can help you decide which setting feels right for your child.
This page explains how to find and apply for a mainstream school place, what happens during the admissions process, and where to get further information if you need it.
Find the right school for your child
Every school is different. Taking time to explore your options can help you find a setting where your child feels supported, included and able to thrive.
When looking at schools, it can help to think about:
- your child's strengths, interests and needs
- how the school supports children with SEND
- the school's location and travel arrangements
- your child's views and preferences
- opportunities for your child to take part in school life.
If possible, visit schools before applying. Open days and visits give you an opportunity to explore the school, meet staff and ask how they would support your child.
- use the School Accessibility App to learn more about a school's accessibility features
- read their Ofsted report
- read their SEND policy and SEND information report (you can usually find these on their website)
- talk to the school's SENCO.
Not too sure what to ask? Read our guide to questions to ask the school other parents and carers have asked when choosing a school.
Apply for a school place
Most children with SEND apply for school places through the same admissions process as other children.
You can find information about:
- applying for a reception place
- applying for a year 7 secondary school place
- moving to another school during the school year.
Prepare your child to start or change school
Starting a new school or moving to the next stage of education can be exciting, but it is natural for you or your child to have questions or concerns.
Find out how you can prepare your child for:
- starting reception year
- moving from primary to secondary school
- transferring to a new school during the school year.
Planning ahead and talking to your child’s current and new schools can help everyone understand their needs, strengths, interests and any worries they may have.
Support available in mainstream schools
All mainstream schools must identify and support pupils with SEND. Support will be tailored to your child's individual needs and reviewed regularly with you and your child.
Find out more about SEND support in mainstream schools, including how schools identify needs, plan support and review your child’s progress.
If your child needs more specialist support
While most children with SEND attend mainstream schools, some children may need more specialist support. If you feel your child's needs cannot be met in a mainstream setting, you can discuss other educational options with your school and other professionals involved in supporting your child.
Other educational options may include:
If your child has an EHC plan or needs assessment
The application process may be different if your child has an education, health and care (EHC) plan or is going through an EHC needs assessment.
Your child’s needs, the support they require and your school preferences will be considered through the EHC plan process.
If your child is undergoing an EHC needs assessment but does not yet have a final EHC plan, you should also apply through the standard admissions process. This helps make sure they have a school place if an EHC plan is not agreed.
Find out more about moving schools with an EHC needs assessment or EHC plan.
Once you have your school place
Once you receive your offer, you must accept or refuse the school place. This is also a good time to start sharing information with the school about your child's needs and discussing any support or transition arrangements that may help them settle in.