Children in Care & SEND
If your child is in care, they should have a PEP and full SEND support. Here’s how to make sure they do.
This applies if you’re a foster carer, kinship carer, special guardian, adoptive parent, birth parent with parental responsibility, or a young person aged 16 or over. You don’t need any prior knowledge — we explain everything in plain language.
What is a Personal Education Plan (PEP)?
Who it's for, when it must be created, who's involved, how Pupil Premium Plus works, and what a good PEP looks like.
Read the guide →ComparisonPEP vs EHCP — why your child may need both
A PEP describes the support being given. An EHCP is legally binding. Here's why trauma and SEND can be confused, and when to ask for both.
Read the guide →Your rightsWho can request a PEP review, SEND assessment or EHCP?
Foster carers, kinship carers, special guardians, adoptive parents, birth parents with PR, and young people aged 16+ — what each can ask for.
Read the guide →TemplatesLetter templates
Three ready-to-copy letters: request a PEP review, ask for SEND to be considered in the PEP, or request an EHCP needs assessment.
Read the guide →Who's whoKey contacts
Virtual School Head, Designated Teacher, IRO, Social Worker and SEN Team — what each one does, what they can authorise, and when to escalate.
Read the guide →Nothing here is legal advice. If you’re unsure about your specific situation, contact your local Find your local SENDIASS or a specialist SEND solicitor.