Finally got an ehcp - what now?

[Whatafustercluck]

We've been successful in applying for an ehcp for our 7yo dd who has always been described as 'fine at school'. She's undiagnosed but has been granted a general developmental assessment - suspected adhd but some asd traits as well.

Anyway, the school's senco is absolutely dreadful and we're just not sure what to expect now we've had a plan issued. The plan was issued prior to Christmas. We've had no communication from the school, but neither have we instigated contact as we just don't know what happens now. I understand there's an annual review process, which the LA manages, but should we now be actively seeking a meeting with the school? Should the senco have been in touch with us?

Yes, speak to the SENCO and class teacher.

Anything detailed, specified and quantified in F must be provided.

If the EHCP is poor (e.g. vague and woolly, doesn’t include all needs in B, doesn’t include all the provision required in F, doesn’t name your preferred placement) you should appeal.

The AR process as a whole is the responsibility of the LA, but because DD is on the roll of a school some aspect (e.g. sending the invites, circulating information beforehand and the report afterwards) will be undertaken by them.

Thank you, we've emailed the senco and asked for a catch up. Our communication with her hasn't been great, so we want to demonstrate that we're trying to keep communication open.

The ehcp was largely derived from the Ed Psych report, as that's the only concrete evidence we have that 'something' is going on. It's focused on performance anxiety, but we know that she's really sensitive to criticism - even when she's done something wrong and deserves the consequences! So, it's what I would describe as 'light touch'. It seems OK, but we have nothing to compare it to. We believe she has other needs that aren't documented but without the evidence of a full assessment it's hard to prove - particularly as she masks her anxiety at school.

Sounds like the EHCP is poor and you need to appeal and look at independent assessments. If you can’t afford these and you aren’t eligible for legal aid, Parents in Need can sometimes help.