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SEN Reforms – what you need to know

A revised SEN Code of Practice will be published by the Department of Education by April 2014 and implemented from September 2014. Essentially, the Government will transform the system so services support the best outcomes for those with special educational needs (SEN), giving young people and parents a greater input into decisions and ensuring needs are met.

The key principles in the Children and Families Bill are:

  • Promoting the participation of children/young people and parents in the SEN decision making process.
  • The extension of the SEN system from birth to 25 (which will replace the Learning Difficulties Assessment for school leavers).
  • Improving the progress of children/young people with SEN.
  • Co-operation of local education, social care and health services to meet the needs of children/young people with SEN.
  • LEAs to publish a clear ‘local offer’ of services, so young people and parents are aware of what is available to them.
  • Statements to be phased out from September 2014 and replaced with Education, Health and Care (EHC) assessments.
  • SEN Support will replace School Action and School Action Plus, where school will involve parents with decisions, outcomes and planning.
  • Academies, Further Education, Free Schools and Sixth Form colleges to include the same SEN duties as maintained schools.

More information:

Families happy with SEN reforms and £70 million for councils

 

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