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Understanding Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Home Education Options

 

This page is designed to help parents and carers of children with SEN navigate the world of education. Here, we'll break down key information for you:

 

What is SEN?

The Children and Families Act 2014 defines SEN as a learning difficulty or disability that requires additional support in a school setting (special educational provision).

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Your Right to Home Educate Your Child with SEN

The good news: You have the legal right to home educate your child, regardless of whether they have an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan).

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EHCP and Home Education:

Having an EHCP doesn't require permission to home educate. Learn more about withdrawing your child from mainstream or special schools here.

 

Important Points:

• School Named in EHCP: This doesn't automatically register your child. Only you, the parent, can do that.

• Tribunal Decisions: Even if a school is named in the EHCP, you still have the option to home educate instead.

 

Elective Home Education (EHE) Guidance:

The government document outlines your rights and responsibilities regarding home education. Here's what it means for SEN:

• Your Right to Home Educate: It applies equally to children with SEN, with or without an EHCP.

• Local Authority Involvement: If your home education provision is suitable, the local authority doesn't need to provide additional support.

• Focus on Suitability: The focus is on whether your home education meets your child's needs, not if it differs from a school setting.

• Unsuitable Provision: In rare cases, the local authority may deem your provision unsuitable. The process for addressing this is similar to situations with other children not receiving a suitable education at home.