Letter: name a school

Send this when you want a specific school or setting named in Section I of the EHC plan. You have the right to ask for a particular school when you respond to the draft plan, within at least 15 days of it being sent.

The Local Authority must name the school you ask for unless one of a small number of legal exceptions applies, for example that it would be unsuitable for your child’s needs, incompatible with the efficient education of others, or an inefficient use of resources. Before you ask, contact the school yourself, check it can meet the needs in the plan, and keep any reply. This applies in England; check your nation if elsewhere. This is information, not legal advice.

Here is the template.

To: [LA SEN TEAM EMAIL]. Date: [DATE]. Dear [NAME OR “SEN Team”].

Request for [SCHOOL NAME] to be named in Section I of the EHC plan for [CHILD’S NAME]. Child’s name: [CHILD’S FULL NAME]. Date of birth: [DD/MM/YYYY]. Your reference: [REFERENCE NUMBER].

I am writing in response to the draft EHC plan, within the 15-day period, to request that the following school be named in Section I. School: [FULL SCHOOL NAME]. Type: [MAINSTREAM / SPECIAL / OTHER]. Address: [SCHOOL ADDRESS].

I am asking for this school because it can meet [CHILD’S NAME]’s needs as set out in the plan. In particular: [REASON 1, e.g. the school has experience supporting children with my child’s profile]; [REASON 2, e.g. it can deliver the speech and language provision in Section F]; [REASON 3, e.g. it is the right environment for my child, for these reasons].

[IF YOU HAVE CONTACTED THE SCHOOL: I have spoken with the school and they have confirmed they can meet [CHILD’S NAME]’s needs. I attach their response dated [DATE].]

I understand you must name the school I have requested unless a specific legal exception applies. If you believe one applies, please tell me which one and give your reasons in writing, so that I can respond. Yours faithfully, [YOUR FULL NAME], parent of [CHILD’S NAME].