Phase transfer - timings?

[RedHotWings]

Hi all,

I would be very grateful for advice as can't find this online. DC is in year 5 with EHCP. My understanding is that the phase transfer process will commence at the end of this year with us needing to request a school. My question is when I need to apply for a special school placement, organise professionals to visit etc. Is it standard practice to have had a school place offered at the time when it is requested by parents (so by the end of this year) and if so, do schools hold the place for the next twelve months during tribunals etc? When do the schools offer such placements for phase transfer? Basically a sense check on the process / timings would be much appreciated, thank you!

The LA must finalise the amended EHCP naming the secondary placement by 15th February of Y6.

You do not have to apply via the normal procedures, fill in a separate form, request more than one school or include a mainstream as well as a SS. Even if the LA say you do.

The LA should hold a phase transfer review in the autumn term of Y6. As part of the meeting you can discuss secondary placement. Following the review meeting you will be sent proposed amendments within 4 weeks of the meeting. At this point you can state your preferred placement.

You only need an offer of a place if it is a wholly independent placement. You will need the offer of a place for them to be named and how long they hold it for will depend on the school.

If you need to appeal, phase transfer appeals are prioritised. It won’t be a 12 month wait.

Thank you. Is there a general timeframe for the process regarding wholly independent schools or varies a fair bit from school to school?

If you are wanting a wholly independent SS you should start looking now. When wholly independent schools offer places varies. The timetable for the AR and informing the LA is the same as any other school but you will need an offer of a place before asking the LA.