Headings of an EHC plan for children and young people in year 9 and above
The SEND Code of Practice (2015) emphasised the need for successful preparation for adulthood for those with SEND, which must be considered from year 9 onwards. To help focus this thinking, there is a distinction in the headings within Section B of EHC plans (special educational needs) based on the age of the child or young person.
| Early Years – Year 8 | Year 9 and above |
|---|---|
| Early Years – Year 8Cognition and Learning | Year 9 and aboveLearning and Work |
| Early Years – Year 8Communication and Interaction | Year 9 and aboveCommunity and Friends |
| Early Years – Year 8Sensory and/or Physical Social, Emotional and Wellbeing | Year 9 and aboveBeing Healthy |
| Early Years – Year 8Self Help and Independence Skills and Keeping Safe | Year 9 and aboveLiving Independently |
It is important to note that once a child reaches year 9, their EHC plan will not be automatically amended to update these headings unless there is reason to make other amendments to the plan through the annual review process. For many children in years 9, 10 and 11, it is therefore likely that the existing headings will remain in Section B until their EHC plan is updated as part of the year 11 phase transfer process. Preparation for adulthood will however be discussed within the annual review process from year 9 onwards.