Choosing the right school for your child can feel overwhelming, but starting early makes a big difference.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Find Local Schools:

Please click here to find your nearest schools.

Tip! Make sure to check each school's admission criteria

2. Gather Information:

Learn more about each school by:

• Talking to other parents.
• Reading Ofsted reports.
• Visiting school websites.
• Checking their SEND Information Report (which explains how they support children with additional needs).

3. Visit Schools:

Visiting schools is essential. Many schools offer open days, tours or events where you can meet staff and ask questions.

4. Speak to the SENCO:

Contact the school to meet the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). This is a great chance to:

• Talk about your child’s needs.
• Ask how the school will help your child settle in.
• Find out about the extra support they can offer.

5. Apply for a School Place:

Once you've chosen the schools you prefer, you can apply online here.

Most children with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan can attend their local mainstream school.

However, for some children, a specialist setting such as a special school or Enhanced Learning Provision (ELP) might be more suitable. This decision is usually made by you and professionals who know your child well.

1. Exploring Specialist Schools:

To learn more about the specialist settings available in Croydon, click here

2. Visiting Schools:

Before making any decisions, it's important to visit the schools you are interested in and speak with staff. This will help you understand what each school can offer your child.

3. Requesting a Specialist School or ELP:

If you would like your child to attend a special school or ELP, you should express this preference:

• During the draft EHC Plan process
  
• At your child’s EHC Plan transition review
  

Your Early Years (EY) SEND team and EHCP Coordinator will support you through this process.

4. How Decisions Are Made:

The Local Authority (LA) will try to place your child in the school you choose. However, the final decision is based on:

• Whether the school is suitable for your child's age, ability and needs.
• Whether it is a good use of public resources.
• Whether it fits well with the education of other pupils at the school.

5. Confirming the School:

Once a school has been agreed, you will be notified, and your child’s EHC Plan will be updated to include the school’s name giving you plenty of time to plan and prepare.

Important dates:

• 15th February - Reception and Secondary transfer
• 31st March - Year 11 and Post 16/19 Transfers

Important - Apply for a Mainstream School Too:

Even if you are considering a special school or ELP, we encourage you to also provide a preference of mainstream school in case the LA is unable to name your preference of special school or an ELP. Do not list your preference for a special school or ELP in this application. Please click here and follow the instructions.