If you have your child’s EHCP annual review coming up soon, it’s natural to want to feel prepared and confident. This important meeting is an opportunity to reflect on your child’s progress, discuss their needs, and make sure they have the right support in place to thrive. With a little preparation, you can make the most of the review and feel reassured that you’re helping to shape the best possible outcomes for your child. Here are ten tips to guide you through the process:
Gather Evidence That Tells The Story
Take a moment to reflect on the past year. What’s gone well? What hasn’t? Pull together anything that illustrates your child’s progress or struggles, school reports, therapy notes, or even your own observations. Don’t stress if you haven’t documented everything perfectly; even informal notes can be incredibly helpful.
Familiarise Yourself With The EHCP
Before the meeting, go through your child’s current Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Pay attention to the outcomes and provisions. Are they still relevant? Have your child’s needs changed? This will help you identify areas that need updating or prompt further discussion.
Encourage Pupil Voice
The annual review is an opportunity for your child to have their say. This can be incredibly empowering, as it ensures their perspective is heard. If your child is non-verbal, too young, or struggles to express themselves in this kind of setting, consider alternative ways to capture their voice. This might be through a drawing, a video, or even a photo montage that reflects their thoughts and experiences. Speak with the school to see how they can support this – it’s a collaborative effort.
Make A List Of Questions
Annual reviews can move quickly, and it’s easy to forget what you wanted to say. Jot down any questions or concerns you have in advance. Whether it’s about specific support, therapy options, or future plans, having a list will help you stay organised.
Be Prepared To Advocate, But Collaborate Too
While advocating for your child’s needs is essential, it’s equally important to approach the process as a partnership. The professionals in the room bring valuable insights from seeing your child in a different setting. Work together to find solutions and strategies that benefit your child. If you disagree with something, address it respectfully and seek clarity.
Stay Focused On Your Child’s Needs
It’s easy to get bogged down in details, but remember: the review is about ensuring your child’s needs are met. Keep the focus on what will help them thrive, whether that’s adjustments to teaching strategies, additional therapies, or tailored goals.
Think About The Future
This isn’t just about the here and now. Use the review to discuss your child’s aspirations and long-term goals. Whether it’s transitioning to secondary school, preparing for adulthood, or pursuing specific interests, these conversations are crucial.
Celebrate Progress
While it’s important to address challenges, don’t forget to celebrate your child’s achievements. Highlighting their progress can set a positive tone for the meeting and remind everyone of how far they’ve come. Recognising successes, no matter how small, is just as valuable as discussing areas for improvement.
Follow Up Afterwards
The meeting doesn’t have to be the final word. If you feel something wasn’t resolved or need more time to process the discussion, follow up with the school or local authority. Staying proactive is key.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general interest and should not be considered medical, therapeutic or educational advice. Families are encouraged to seek support from qualified professionals regarding individual needs or concerns.
