Definitions and support
Children with special educational needs may require provision different from or additional to that made generally for others of the same age. In England, an EHCP may set out specific provision. The SEND Code of Practice (for England) is the key reference for statutory processes.
This guide cannot cover individual EHCP disputes or tribunal strategy. Use IPSEA, SOS!SEN, or a qualified solicitor when you need case-specific help.
Home educating with an EHCP
A child with an EHC plan can be electively home educated. Having a plan does not, by itself, take that choice away from you.
What matters is the type of school your child attends. At a mainstream school, an EHC plan on its own does not mean local authority permission is required, and the ordinary written-notice route applies. At a special school arranged by the local authority, it is different: the authority's consent is required before your child's name is deleted from the school's admission register. The guidance is clear that this should not be a long or complex process, and that consent must not be withheld unreasonably.
Choosing elective home education does not automatically end an EHC plan. The plan stays in place, and the local authority must still review it at least once every 12 months. That review is your chance to ask for more support or to talk through alternatives.
Where you make suitable arrangements of your own, the local authority's duty to secure the provision in the plan does not apply to the parts you have arranged. The test in law is whether your arrangements are suitable in fact, not whether the local authority gives you permission. Anything you have not taken on stays the local authority's responsibility, and if it later takes the view that the education is no longer suitable, that duty comes back. Check the SEND guidance for your own circumstances.
Therapies and health
NHS and community therapies are separate from education law but interact with your timetable. Coordinate politely with therapists and keep records that show how you embed strategies at home.
Wellbeing
Pace, sensory needs, and mental health matter more than “covering” topics. Many families reduce formal load temporarily while stabilising sleep, anxiety, or communication. Document decisions so you can explain them constructively.
A note on accuracy. This guide is general information, not legal, medical, or professional advice about your situation. Education law and guidance differ across the UK and change over time. Always check the current guidance from your government (gov.uk, gov.scot, gov.wales, or the relevant NI source) and speak to a specialist (such as IPSEA or SOS!SEN for SEND) for advice on disputes, EHCPs, or tribunals.