IEP advice

[Minx179]

DS's school drew up an IEP in June which we turned down, in writing, because it was't SMART. Yet they still submitted it with their statement info.

If a parent refuses to sign the IEP can the school still state it is in place?

They can do whatever they like TBH. The SEN code of practice is voluntary, not statutory so they can do whatever they like.

If they've requested the statutory assessment and it's refused you can request it the following month include whatever information you see fit. You need to show how the school are unable to meet your son's needs from their existing resources and tell them about the IEP if it backs this claim up.

Sorry. I was a bit distracted buy children when typing that post - can you tell?

Yes - if you refuse to sign they can still provide the support within the IEP.

But the fact that the IEP is not SMART will assist you should you need to make a case that the school is not fit to support your child - as evidenced by the lack of SMARTness of the IEP.

If the statutory assessment is refused you shoudl appeal the decision - only you can do that as school cannot appeal a decision on your behalf.

(Ooops just saw Alison's post and mine says the same but posting anyway cos it took a while to type
Best wishes

Thanks.

They could, but aren't providing the support suggested by the OT or EP.

The IEP was rubbish the onus to do/put elements in place is on DS which was one of the reasons I refused to sign it.

We have just been offered a statement in lieu, while their suggestions are quite good, there is no way the school would put them in place; especially as they don't have to. We will be appealing.

Know what you mean about rubbish IEP's. We were just handed it in review meeting and asked to sign. It was submitted with SA request earlier this year and one of the reasons for refusal was the IEP was not adequate and required input from professionals! Am now awaiting final sm and have said that I will be expecting new IEP with SMART targets as soon as sm is finalised. HT still says they will need help in writing it but at least they are trying a bit. Have you met with Senco and explained what SMART targets are?

Not yet. I am planning on writing that letter tomorrow, along with asking how he is doing at meeting his current unsmart targets.

I've never been asked to or signed an IEP - good Lord - another thing I've missed on parental involvement!! Ours are shoddy - no targets met on paper.....I am learning on the appeal job!!

It's a Note in Lieu (not Statement in Lieu) otherwise known as NIL, as that's what it will deliver - NIL!

Hope you pursue your appeal.

Best wishes

Cheers SM.

I know the NIL is a waste of paper. Though you wouldn't think so listening to the LA's SEN officer

LOL - they can fool some of the people......

But not you

I love the way the internet and boards like this are really empowering parents.

The LAs must hate us