When to apply for an EHC?

[Palmparent]

My DC is about to start preschool next week. He is 3 and we're waiting on an autism assessment, which I'm confident will end in a diagnosis.

I'm sure everyone else on this thread will understand that I'm already looking ahead at the next steps in terms of his educational needs.

I'm wondering at stage did people apply for an EHC assessment?

I'm unsure if i should wait until after the autism assessment (which due to the wait times will probably be during the summer holidays next year) or if I should get the EHC assessment arranged earlier so if it is needed, its in place in time for Reception?

Thanks in advance, this is my first post on mumsnet so apologies if I've made any mistakes. 😊

EHCPs are based on needs, not diagnosis, so you don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to request an EHCNA. If you think an EHCP is required you should apply now. Some people have to appeal more than once, so you don’t want to leave it until next summer in case you need the additional time to appeal.