EHCP question

[winterrabbit]

DS 14 has ADHD and his school is applying for an EHCP for him basically to see if they can get more funding for counselling etc. Although the school is ok, there is another school in the area which has a fantastic SEND team and, for other reasons, I am thinking he may be better off in this school (results are a lot better) so I am wondering if I should ask that the plan names that school but if this possible if it's another school making the application? Also, does an EHCP have to name a school and, if it doesn't, does the child still get priority on the waiting list? TIA.

The school applying for an EHCP doesn’t mean another school can’t be named if the LA issue an EHCP. You would get a draft and be able to name your preference which, unless wholly independent, must be named unless the LA can prove:
-The setting is unsuitable for the age, ability, aptitude or special educational needs (“SEN”) of the child or young person; or
-The attendance of the child or young person would be incompatible with the provision of efficient education for others; or
-The attendance of the child or young person would be incompatible with the efficient use of resources.

An EHCP does not have to name a school, but if section I names mainstream as the type of school it should normally also name a specific school. Section I should be left blank for EOTAS.

DC with EHCPs don’t need to sit on waiting lists, if a school is named in I then the school must admit, if they refuse they can be directed to. And, unless wholly independent, being full is not enough to refuse to name a school in the EHCP, the LA have to prove the school is so full it is incompatible, which is a high bar.