If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you’ll know just how vital it is in supporting their learning and development. But as your child grows and their needs evolve, it’s essential that the plan keeps up. That’s where the annual review comes in — a formal opportunity to reflect, reassess and, where necessary, make changes.

This guide is designed to help you feel confident and prepared for your child’s EHCP annual review. Whether it’s your first review or your fifth, you’ll find practical steps to take and helpful insights into how the process works.

What is an EHCP Annual Review?

An EHCP annual review is a legal requirement. Local authorities must review your child’s EHCP at least once every 12 months to ensure it remains relevant and effective. This review assesses whether your child’s needs have changed, whether the support is still suitable, and whether the outcomes in the plan are still appropriate.

For children under the age of five, reviews should happen every six months due to the more rapid pace of development in the early years.

The process includes gathering updated information from professionals who work with your child, hearing from you and your child directly, and holding a formal meeting to discuss whether any changes should be made to the EHCP.

Why the Annual Review Matters

The annual review is more than just a tick-box exercise. It’s your opportunity to influence the direction of your child’s education and support. It can lead to crucial updates in the provision outlined in the plan — for example, changes to therapy hours, school placement, or outcomes based on your child’s progress.

For many parents, it’s also a valuable chance to reflect on how things are going and to raise any concerns that may not have been addressed throughout the year. Whether it’s a teaching approach that isn’t working or an unmet need that’s become more obvious, the review is the place to have those conversations.

Understanding the Timeline

The annual review is a structured process that follows a clear timeline. It begins with the local authority or your child’s school or setting requesting updated information from professionals, such as teachers, therapists, and medical staff.

This must happen at least two weeks before the review meeting takes place. You should also be invited to contribute your own views and those of your child. These contributions should all be circulated ahead of the meeting so that everyone attending is fully informed.

The review meeting itself is typically held in your child’s school or setting and includes you, relevant professionals, and often your child if appropriate. After the meeting, a report of the review must be sent to the local authority within two weeks. From there, the local authority has four weeks to decide whether the EHCP should be maintained, amended, or ceased.

How to Prepare Before the Meeting

Preparation really is key when it comes to making the most of the annual review. Start by taking a look at the current EHCP and reflecting on what’s working well and what’s not. Consider each section of the plan — especially Section B (Special Educational Needs), Section F (Special Educational Provision), and Section E (Outcomes).

It can be helpful to keep a journal or notes throughout the year about progress, difficulties, or any significant changes. This will give you real-life examples to refer to during the meeting.

Ask for copies of all reports and professional advice in advance. This might include speech and language reports, educational psychology assessments, or therapy updates. Read through them carefully and jot down any questions you want to ask.

Most importantly, speak to your child if they are able to share their views. Their voice matters, and the review is a chance for them to be heard. Some children prefer to write their thoughts, draw pictures, or create a video — whatever helps them feel comfortable.

What to Expect During the Review Meeting

The review meeting should be a collaborative and supportive discussion. You’ll go through the contents of the EHCP and discuss each section, looking at what’s working and what may need to change. Professionals may update the group on their latest assessments or observations, and you’ll have the chance to share your own insights.

It’s completely okay — and often very helpful — to bring someone with you. This might be a partner, friend, or advocate. Some parents also find it useful to bring a copy of the SEND Code of Practice or local guidance in case they need to refer to it.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to challenge something if it doesn’t feel right. This is your child’s future we’re talking about. If you feel unsure during the meeting, it’s perfectly fine to ask for time to consider things before agreeing to any changes.

After the Review Meeting

Once the meeting is over, the school or setting should send a written report summarising what was discussed, along with any recommendations. This report is then sent to the local authority, who must inform you of their decision within four weeks of the meeting.

They can choose to maintain the plan as it is, make amendments, or cease the EHCP altogether. If they propose changes, they must send you a draft of the amended plan and give you at least 15 days to comment or request a meeting to discuss it further.

If you disagree with the local authority’s decision — for example, if they decide not to make changes you feel are necessary — you have the right to challenge that decision through mediation or appeal to the SEND Tribunal.

Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

Knowing your rights and understanding the review process can make a big difference. The SEND Code of Practice is a useful document to refer to, particularly sections 9.166 to 9.185, which outline how annual reviews should be conducted.

It’s also reassuring to know that you’re not alone. According to the Department for Education, around 473,300 children and young people had an EHCP in place in England as of January 2023 (Special Educational Needs in England, DfE, 2023). That’s a huge community of parents, carers, educators and professionals all working toward the same goal: making sure every child gets the support they need to thrive.

Final Thoughts

The EHCP annual review is your opportunity to make sure your child’s plan reflects who they are now — not who they were a year ago. It’s a chance to speak up, ask questions, celebrate progress, and push for better support where needed.

By preparing ahead of time, knowing what to expect, and trusting your instincts, you can enter the meeting feeling empowered and ready to advocate for your child’s needs. Remember, you are the expert in your child — and your voice matters.

If you’re ever unsure or need help, organisations like IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) and SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Services) offer free, impartial guidance to help you navigate the process with confidence.

You’ve got this.