Requesting an EHC needs assessment

When to request an EHC needs assessment

Where, despite the setting having taken relevant and purposeful action to identify, assess and meet the special educational needs of the child/young person from within their existing resources (SEN support) and they have not made adequate progress, a request for an EHC assessment can be made.

To inform its decision the local authority will expect to see evidence of the action taken by the school/setting as part of SEN support.

Who can request an EHC needs assessment

The following people have a specific right to request a statutory assessment for an EHC Plan:

• The child's parent (or advocate on their behalf),
• The young person over the age of 16 (or advocate on their behalf),
• A person acting on behalf of a school or post 16 institutions (this should be with the knowledge and agreement of the child/ young person and their family)

What is an EHC needs assessment

This involves a multi-agency assessment of your child’s needs which may result in an EHC plan being put in place.

How to request an EHC needs assessment

A request made by the early years setting, school or college will usually come in the format of My Support Plan (MSP) and will be submitted electronically to SENARTAssessments@wakefield.gov.uk. The decision to submit this request should be discussed with the parents/carers in the first instance and then signed and agreed following a final review of the document.

Young people/Parents should make a written request to SENARTAssessments@wakefield.gov.uk

Your request should set out why you believe you/your child has or may have special educational needs, and why you believe you/they may need special educational provision to be made through an EHC Plan.

You can use this letter as a template for your request.

How a decision is made to undertake an assessment

Every request for an EHC needs assessment received by Wakefield LA will be considered alongside the two-part test as outlined within section 36(8) of the Children and Families Act 2014.

Part one of the test is that the child or young person has or may have special educational needs.

Part two of the test is that it may be necessary for special educational provision to be made for the child/young person through the issuing of an EHC plan.

When should I expect to receive a decision

The LA must reply within six weeks.

If Wakefield LA decides not to undertake an EHC needs assessment you will be informed of this decision in writing. This decision letter will also outline why this decision has been made and will include details of your right to appeal this decision and how to do so.