Expert Insights

The Complete Guide to SEND School Admissions in 2025

Published 28th March 2025 by Alastair

At Ivy Education, we understand how personal and sometimes overwhelming the school admissions process can feel, especially when you are navigating it for a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Whether you are considering mainstream, specialist or independent options, this guide will help you approach SEND school admissions with clarity and confidence.. Whether you are exploring mainstream schools, specialist provision, or considering an independent route, this guide will help you confidently navigate the SEND school admissions process.

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Understanding SEND School Admissions

SEND admissions refer to the process of securing a school place for a child who has additional educational needs. These needs may arise from difficulties with learning, communication, sensory processing, behaviour, or physical development. Some children may require support due to dyslexia, autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, or physical disabilities. Others may have more complex combinations of needs.

The purpose of the admissions process is to identify a suitable school where your child’s needs can be properly met, ensuring that they are able to access education, thrive academically, and be fully included in school life.

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The Role of Assessments in SEND School Admissions

Before beginning the admissions process, it is vital to develop a clear understanding of your child’s specific needs, strengths, and challenges. In many cases, formal assessments are a crucial first step. Educational assessments can help identify learning profiles, pinpoint areas where support is needed, and form the evidence base for additional support within a school or through an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan.

An expert assessment may include cognitive testing, literacy and numeracy assessments, speech and language evaluations, or diagnostic assessments for specific conditions such as dyslexia or ADHD. The findings often help shape the recommendations in an EHC Plan or, where a plan is not needed, inform the school’s approach to SEND support.

At Ivy Education, our experienced team offers a full range of specialist assessments to help families gain a clearer picture of their child’s needs. These assessments are frequently used as part of the application process for schools or EHC Plans and can be transformative when advocating for your child.

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The SEND Admissions Process: What to Expect

If your child does not have an EHC Plan, you will follow the standard admissions route through your local authority. However, you are strongly encouraged to take additional steps, such as visiting potential schools, meeting the SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), and reviewing the school’s SEND Information Report to understand how they support pupils with similar needs.

For children who do have an EHC Plan, the local authority will consult with schools to secure a placement that aligns with the provision outlined in the plan. Parents are entitled to express a preference for a particular school, and the local authority must consult with your chosen school unless there is a legally valid reason not to.

If you are unsure whether your child should be applying for an EHC Plan or how to navigate this process, Ivy Education’s Educational Consultancy service is here to help you through every stage.

Mainstream Schools vs Specialist Provision

One of the most significant decisions you will make is choosing between a mainstream school or a specialist setting. Many children with SEND flourish in mainstream schools with the right adjustments, specialist input, and pastoral support. Conversations with the SENCo, classroom visits, and a clear understanding of the school’s SEND provision will help you assess whether the school can meet your child’s individual needs.

Alternatively, some children require a specialist environment, either in the form of a special school or a resource base within a mainstream setting. Specialist schools provide tailored support, smaller class sizes, and highly trained staff who understand complex needs. Access to these schools typically requires an EHC Plan.

If you are uncertain which path would be most suitable for your child, our consultants can help you weigh up your options and make an informed decision. Speak to an Ivy SEND expert.

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Your Legal Rights During the Admissions Process

The Children and Families Act 2014 gives parents the right to request a specific school or college when they receive a draft or amended EHC Plan. The local authority is legally required to consult your preferred school unless they can demonstrate that the placement is unsuitable, would disrupt the education of others, or would be an inefficient use of public funds.

It is also vital to be aware of key deadlines. When moving to secondary school, your child’s EHC Plan must be reviewed and updated by 15 February of the year they are due to transfer. For post-16 transitions, the deadline is 31 March. These deadlines are essential, as they allow sufficient time for appeals or further consultation before the new academic year begins.

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Preparing for a Successful Transition

Once your child has been offered a place, it is important to engage with the school early. A meeting with the headteacher and SENCo provides an opportunity to share vital information about your child’s profile, ensuring that appropriate support can be put in place before the school year begins. A carefully planned transition can make a profound difference to your child’s wellbeing and ability to settle into their new environment.

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Ongoing SEND Support

Securing a school place is just one part of your child’s educational journey. Many children with SEND will continue to benefit from interventions such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or targeted teaching approaches. Others may require ongoing assessment as they grow and develop.

Ivy Education offers specialist support beyond admissions, from educational assessments to advice on academic progress and future transitions. We are here to support you and your child, not just during admissions, but throughout their entire educational journey.

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How Ivy Education Can Help

At Ivy Education, we work alongside families to make the SEND admissions process less stressful and more successful. Our consultancy team brings expert knowledge of SEND law, admissions procedures, and school placement strategy to every consultation.

Whether you are considering specialist assessments, applying for an EHC Plan, selecting schools, or navigating an appeal, we are here to help you every step of the way.

To find out more, visit our Educational Consultancy page or learn about our range of specialist assessments to get the clarity you need for your next step.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about SEND School Admissions

SEND school admissions refer to the process of securing a school place for a child with special educational needs and disabilities. This may involve mainstream schools, specialist schools, or settings with enhanced SEND support.

No, not necessarily. If your child does not have an EHC Plan, you will follow the standard admissions process. However, if your child has significant or complex needs, an EHC Plan will often be necessary to access a specialist placement or tailored support.

Yes. Parents have the legal right to express a preference for the school they want their child to attend when an EHC Plan is being prepared or reviewed. The local authority must consult your preferred school unless they can legally justify refusing the placement.

You can challenge the decision through mediation and, if necessary, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (SEND Tribunal). This process allows you to present your case and secure a suitable placement.

Ivy Education offers specialist consultancy to guide parents through every step of the admissions process, including school selection, EHC Plans, appeals, and transition planning. Our team ensures you receive tailored, expert advice suited to your family’s needs.