Radio silence from SENCO

[BananaPie]

I’m at a bit of a loss! The school applied for an EHCP for DD over a year ago. Following an appeal for refusal to assess, the assessment process happened this summer. The LA have now refused to issue on the basis that the school should be able to provide the support without an EHCP.

It’s pretty clear that the school can’t or won’t provide anything like the amount of support in the recommendations without an EHCP. DD does not have an individual provision map and the school has not yet updated her pupil profile.

I plan to appeal. I have sent the school the model letter asking for the information about support provided etc. But it’s been 4 weeks now and no response. I’ve sent chasers and copied in the head. The original SENCO has resigned and her replacement isn’t responding to emails.

Can I appeal without all the evidence then submit it later? Do I formally complain to the school?

Just appeal without the evidence. You can win an appeal without much evidence. They might then issue an EHCP with no funding, which would still require certain provision and school wouldn't be able to argue with it.

EHCP support thread no. 4 - www.mumsnet.com/talk/special_educational_needs/5197351-ehcp-support-thread-no-4 might be worth posting on here. A lot of us have had similar experiences.

But yes go with what you have. You are the person who cares most about getting this sorted.

You could do a Subject Access Request and they'd have to provide all emails etc that mention your daughter. Could be very enlightening.

You don’t have to send all the evidence when you initially submit the appeal. There will be a later evidence deadline. Even after the evidence deadline, you can request late evidence is admitted. Send what evidence you do have. You can send more later. Whatever you do, don’t miss the appeal deadline.

Consider whether you need any independent assessments.

Was it IPSEA’s model letter for DD’s school record you used? Is the school a maintained school? If not, the school may be ignoring the letter because such requests only apply to maintained schools (and NMSS which doesn’t apply in your case). Even if it is a maintained school, a SAR will give you more information than a request for a child’s school record.

Thanks all. Really helpful advice. I have drafted the appeal and compiled what I do have in terms of evidence. It’s just disappointing that the school isn’t able to be more supportive