SEND Code of Practice 0-25 Years

  • SEND Code of Practice 0 – 25

    What is the Code of Practice?

    This Code of Practice provides statutory guidance on duties, policies and procedures relating to Part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014 and associated regulations and applies to England. It relates to children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and disabled children and young people.

    Principles underpinning the Code of Practice

    Section 19 of the Children and Families Act 2014 makes clear that local authorities, in carrying out their functions under the Act in relation to disabled children and young people and those with special educational needs (SEN), must have regard to:

    • the views, wishes and feelings of the child or young person, and the child’s parents;
    • the importance of the child or young person, and the child’s parents, participating as fully as possible in decisions, and being provided with the information and support necessary to enable participation in those decisions;
    • the need to support the child or young person, and the child’s parents, in order to facilitate the development of the child or young person and to help them achieve the best possible educational and other outcomes, preparing them effectively for adulthood.

    These principles are designed to support:

    • the participation of children, their parents and young people in decision-making;
    • the early identification of children and young people’s needs and early intervention to support them;
    • greater choice and control for young people and parents over support;
    • collaboration between education, health and social care services to provide support;
    • high quality provision to meet the needs of children and young people with SEN;
    • a focus on inclusive practice and removing barriers to learning;
    • successful preparation for adulthood, including independent living and employment.