Education Law Solicitors

Everything you face, we face with you

Special Education Needs in Colchester

 

If your child has special educational needs (SEN), they may require tailored support to reach their full potential in education. Our experienced legal team are here to guide you through the process and help secure the right assistance for your child. For expert advice on any SEN-related legal matters, speak with one of our specialist solicitors today.

What Are Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

 Special educational needs refer to learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for a child to learn compared to others of the same age. These needs can affect various aspects of development, including:

  • Understanding and processing information
  • Emotional and behavioural regulation
  • Attention and focus
  • Hearing or visual impairments
  • Physical mobility
  • Reading, writing, or other literacy skills
  • Social communication and interaction

If your child is struggling more than their peers and needs additional help at school, they may have SEN. Not sure where to start? Our legal experts can help you understand your rights and the next steps.

How SEN Support Works

 Schools are expected to provide support for children with SEN, typically led by a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo). They will create an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that outlines the specific strategies and support your child needs, which might include:

  • One-to-one assistance
  • Involvement from specialist professionals
  • Tailored learning approaches

However, if your child’s needs go beyond what the school can provide—or if the school fails to recognise those needs—an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may be required.

Understanding EHCPs: Key Information

  • Schools receive funding to support students with SEN, but this is often stretched.
  • An EHCP can provide additional resources and specialist support when school-level support is insufficient.
  • You don’t have to complete the ‘Assess, Plan, Do, Review’ cycle to request an EHC needs assessment—you or the school can apply directly to the local authority.

SEN Legal Advice in Colchester

Our dedicated legal team has a strong track record of helping families across Colchester and the surrounding areas with SEN matters. We’ve successfully supported parents in challenging local authority decisions and securing the support their children deserve, including through the Tribunal process.

If you need expert legal advice on your child’s educational rights and entitlements, contact our specialist solicitors today on 02920 291 704.

 

Education Law Advice
Special Educational Needs Solicitors
Colchester