Help me understand the EHCP process with school applications

[Cheeseand2veg]

Full disclaimer: I don't have an ND child but my nephew is self-diagnosed autistic. She's not yet applying for secondary school but as my daughter is about to go, it's on my radar as a few people are talking about their EHCPs and secondary places etc/naming other schools and not applying as normal. I'd like to be able to help my sister navigate the process. Can anyone spare a couple of minutes to explain how you apply for secondary when you have an EHCP? Or when you don't have one yet but are waiting for one? Or when you don't have a formal diagnosis but have self diagnosed? Thank you.

(Sorry if the above is unclear: 'She's applying' refers to my sister, the mum of my nephew who has self diagnosed her son and will be applying in a couple of years for secondary. My daughter is older than my nephew and waiting to hear about her school place - hence why it's on my radar)

Can anyone spare a couple of minutes to explain how you apply for secondary when you have an EHCP?

There is a phase transfer review in the Autumn term of Y6. During this process parents get the opportunity to state their preferred placement. Phase transfer EHCPs are then finalised by 15th Feb of Y6.

Or when you don't have one yet but are waiting for one?

Anyone without a finalised EHCP by the normal admissions deadline should apply via the normal application route. If at a later date an EHCP is finalised any school named in it will override any offer made via the normal admissions process.

Or when you don't have a formal diagnosis but have self diagnosed?

Leaving aside the differing views on self diagnosis, support in school is based on needs, not diagnosis. You don’t need a diagnosis for an EHCP.

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. This is really helpful. Much appreciated x