What is the SEN Code of Practice?

last updated:March 2009

The SEN Code of Practice gives practical guidance to local authorities (LAs), the governing bodies of maintained schools, and settings that receive government funding to provide early education. It also applies to those who help them, including the health services and social services.

The guidance in the Code

The Code sets out guidance on policies and procedures aimed at enabling pupils with SEN to reach their full potential, to be included fully in their school communities. and make a successful transition to adulthood.

It also gives advice on:

• carrying out statutory assessment of a child's SEN
• making and maintaining a statement of SEN for children with severe and complex needs
• carrying out annual reviews of statements; and
• planning for young people with SEN to make the transition to college, training and employment.
• Extra resources
• The SEN Toolkit gives additional information on SEN issues and suggests different kinds of action that schools might take to support children with SEN.
  

Inclusive Schooling: Children with Special Educational Needs also complements the SEN Code of Practice and provides guidance on decision-making in relation to school placement of children with SEN.

Where to find them

You can download copies of all these documents from the Teachernet website:

• SEN code of practice
• SEN toolkit
• Inclusive schooling

Teachernet: SEN and disability