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Using individual education plans (IEPs)
You're not required to create IEPs anymore, but take a look at some suggestions about what to include if you do use them. There's also some templates from local authorities.
Contents
It's up to you to decide whether to use IEPs
The SEND Code of Practice no longer makes specific reference to IEPs. It recommends using school-based plans to support pupils but doesn't set a specific format.
Check with your local authority (LA) to find out if they require a specific format for an assessment of SEN needs.
Otherwise, choose a format that works best for you and your pupils - use IEPs if you find them effective. See example of other approaches here.
How to write an IEP
Its contents will depend on the pupil's needs, but generally it should be:
- Outcome-focused
- Collaborative (involving parents, pupils and school staff)
- Child-friendly and parent-friendly
- Easy for staff to use
- Clear about it its purpose
And include the following:
- Entry data on the pupil (prior to receiving additional support)
- Expected outcomes for the pupil
- Actual outcomes for the pupil
- The pupil’s participation in any interventions
- Comments
- Next steps
The above was explained to us by Anita Devi, one of our associate education experts.
Get help with putting an IEP together
Look at templates from local authorities
Use IEP software
Some schools have automated the process of writing IEPs using dedicated software, such as:
Please note that the inclusion of these products above doesn't constitute a recommendation by The Key.
Sources
Anita Devi is an education consultant and trainer who specialises in SEN and the use of technology to support learning. She is a member of nasen's national advisory board, and one of the founder members of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA).
- How to create school-based plans for pupils with SEN
- Pupil observation reports for SENCOs
- Pupil pursuit form: pupils with SEN
- Recording and monitoring interventions: template forms
- Running a nurture group
- School-based plans for pupils with SEN: making them pupil-friendly
- School-based plans for pupils with SEN: templates and examples
- SEN review meetings with parents: guidance Updated
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