Access Compass guide
Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) annual reviews: achieving meaningful changes
Get the most from your child's EHC plan annual review, the yearly check of the plan. This guide shows you how to prepare well, ask for changes, and keep the plan specific and up to date. It also covers changing school placement, including independent options.
Published by Access Compass · How we research and check guides
Who it's for: Parents & carers, Children & young people, Professionals
Not yet verified Last checked 16 Jul 2026. Always confirm details with the service before relying on them.
Step by step
-
Prepare before the meeting
Collect reports from school and therapists, review progress against outcomes and write down what is and isn't working. Ask your child for their views.
-
Review each section
During the meeting, check that Section B (needs) reflects current challenges and that Section F (provision) is specific, quantified and meets those needs.
-
Request amendments
After the meeting, the LA has four weeks to decide whether to amend the plan. Ask for additional therapies, more hours or a change of placement if evidence supports it.
-
Placement & transport changes
Where outcomes aren't being met or needs have changed, ask that the LA consults independent providers aligned to updated Section F (e.g., move from broad Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) to autism-specialist; Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) to therapeutic boarding). If a change of school is proposed, request joint visit options and transition plans with the new setting.
-
Appeal if necessary
If the LA refuses to amend or names a placement you disagree with, seek mediation and consider an appeal to the SEND Tribunal within two months of the decision.
-
Plan transitions
Year 5 and Year 9 reviews should focus on preparing for transfer to secondary school and adulthood. Start consulting new schools early and involve the transitions team if available.