Sen- moving

[pumpkin9496]

Hello , I’m considering moving areas . However I’m trying to work out the process of how to sort out schooling . All my children attend a sen school so it’s not possible to just withdraw them and find a closer school near to where I am considering moving to . However as I don’t drive it will not be easy to send them to their current school as it would be over an hour away and would be in a different county. I know the new LA will take over their EHCPS but how does this process work . Will I have to try get them to the current school while the new la is reviewing. It’s all very confusing and I’m trying to understand the process .

Where are you considering moving to, OP?

From Kent to Surrey

Some of this looks applicable, OP.

SCC outline the process which would take place.

www.surreycc.gov.uk/children/support-and-advice/local-offer/parents-and-carers/education-and-training/moving-in-or-out-of-surrey-with-an-education-health-and-care-plan

I think I’d have a look and see if there are any suitable schools in the area you’re thinking of. I don’t think Surrey has a great reputation in dealing with SEND, so it might be helpful to have definite schools in mind.

When you move LA with an EHCP, the new LA becomes responsible for the EHCP on transfer. The EHCP transfers on the day you move or within 15 working days of the LA becoming aware if that is later. This includes funding the placement in section I if attending is still practicable. You can request transport. If it isn’t practicable for DC to continue to attend the named placement, the LA must make other arrangements for education, including the provision in F. That is in Reg 15. The maximum recommended travel time is typically considered 45 mins for primary and 1hr15 for secondary, although some travel further. In practice, you may be left with a gap before an alternative placement or other provision is arranged. If the LA refuse or delay, you can force them, but that wouldn’t be immediate.

Within 6 weeks of the date of the transfer, the LA must inform you when they will review the EHCP. This must be within 12 months of the previous AR or 3 months from the date of the transfer, whichever is later. The LA may propose to amend or even propose to cease to maintain. Moving can be risky. You would have the right of appeal, but it is something you need to be aware of. They may also undertake a reassessment of needs.

SCC aren’t any better than KCC if how difficult KCC is to deal with is influencing your decision to move.

I think it would be better for all of them to stay where they are tbh. Do you have to move?

I would strongly recommend you don't move if it can possibly be avoided.