Annual reviews
The process
The annual review process is more than a requirement - it’s a powerful opportunity to make sure every child or young person with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is getting the right support, in the right place, at the right time.
Each year, the review brings everyone together - families, school staff, and professionals to reflect on progress, celebrate successes and agree what happens next.
It keeps support fresh, responsive, and ambitious, ensuring plans evolve as children grow, develop, and discover their strengths.
Celebrating progress and shaping futures
Crucially, the annual review keeps the focus where it belongs: supporting children and young people to thrive in their own communities.
Whether that’s in their local school, with their peers, or accessing opportunities close to home, the process helps ensure that support builds independence, confidence, and real-life outcomes - not just provision on paper.
It’s a chance to:
- recognise and celebrate progress
- listen to the voice of the child or young person
- strengthen partnerships with families
- refine support so it works in everyday settings
When done well, the annual review is not just about looking back - it’s about moving forward with purpose. It ensures that every child’s journey remains person-centred, community-focused, and full of possibility.
BCP Council SEND Local Offer
The BCP Local Offer site offers clear, step-by-step guidance to help schools and settings deliver high-quality EHCP annual reviews with confidence. It breaks down the process into manageable stages, supporting staff to plan, prepare, and lead reviews effectively.
Focused on practical application, it highlights how to gather views, review progress, and keep the child or young person at the centre of decision-making. It also links the annual review to the wider graduated response, helping ensure support remains responsive, purposeful, and outcomes focused.
Above all, this resource is designed to empower settings - providing the tools and clarity needed to carry out meaningful, person-centred reviews that truly support children and young people to succeed.
A step-by-step guide for teachers
Gather evidence and views
Send invites 2 weeks prior
Discuss progress and needs
LA reviews and decides
Submit report in 2 weeks
- assessments
- teacher reports
- parent and pupil views
- review ECHP
- set new targets
- plan support
- complete the report
- send to the local authority
- follow up actions
Further resources
Independent Provider of Special Education Advice (IPSEA)
Nasen.org
Nasen.org
The Key Leaders
SENDiass4BCP
Structural Learning