Choose a school for your child with SEND
Most children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have the right to attend a mainstream school. Schools must put arrangements in place to support your child's individual needs.
Children who do not have an education, health and care (EHC) plan should apply for a mainstream school place. We recommend that if an EHC needs assessment has started but is yet to be completed, then you should still apply for a school place as you may miss out on a place at one of your preferred schools.
Before you choose a mainstream school
We recommend before choosing a school you:
- read their OFSTED report
- read the school’s SEND policy and SEND information report, both should be available on their website
- attend open days or evenings or contact the school directly to arrange a visit.
You may find it helpful to think about questions to ask the education setting before choosing them.
Apply for a mainstream school
You should apply for a mainstream school place, even if your child has an EHC plan or is being assessed for one.
Special schools or schools with specialist resource provision
Normally only children and young people with the most complex or severe needs attend a special school, as their needs should be met by a mainstream school.
All children and young people who attend special schools or special resourced provisions have an EHC plan.
Find out more about:
Working with schools to support your child
We want to make sure that your child can be supported. Read how mainstream schools can support your child whilst in education:
- the inclusion statement details how schools should provide inclusive education
- the mainstream core standards explain what schools must do to support children and young adults with SEND, so that they are included in all aspects of school life.