What the annual review is
Every EHCP must be reviewed at least once a year. It is the moment to check the plan still fits, and to change it if your child’s needs have moved on.
What happens
The school gathers views from you, your child and professionals, holds a meeting, and the local authority then decides whether to keep, change or end the plan.
How to prepare
- Note what is working and what is not
- Bring examples and any new reports
- Be clear about the outcomes you want next
Your rights
You can ask for changes to the plan, and you can challenge decisions you disagree with.
The hardest part is rarely the rules. It is the jargon, the deadlines, and feeling alone against a system that does this every day while you are doing it for the first time.
We build AI that walks alongside families through exactly this: explaining the letters, suggesting what to ask for and when, and helping you put it in writing clearly.
See what we build for people →This guide is general information to help you understand the process. It is not legal advice and does not replace a qualified adviser or your local authority’s official guidance. Rules and timescales can change, so always check the current position for your area.
Common questions
How often is an EHCP reviewed?
At least once a year. The annual review checks the plan still fits and changes it if your child's needs have moved on.
What happens at the review meeting?
The school gathers views from you, your child and professionals, holds a meeting, and the local authority then decides whether to keep, change or end the plan.
Can I ask for changes at the review?
Yes. The review is the moment to request changes to the plan, and you can challenge decisions you disagree with.
How should I prepare for the review?
Note what is and is not working, bring examples and any new reports, and be clear about the outcomes you want for the year ahead.