Phase Transfer Season Is Here. What Parents Need to Know

Summary

Phase transfer is the legal process of updating an EHCP to name the school or setting your child will move to at the next stage of their education.

If you’re supporting a child or young person with SEND, you’ll know that some times of year feel more intense than others. Right now, we’re heading straight into one of the biggest milestones in the EHCP calendar: phase transfer season.

It’s the period that SEN Officers quietly dread… but for families, it’s absolutely crucial. Getting this right means smoother transitions, clearer planning, and far less stress for everyone involved.

At SEND Tutoring, we want to make sure you feel informed, empowered, and ready for what comes next.

What Is Phase Transfer?

Phase transfer is the legal process of updating an EHCP to name the school or setting your child will move to at the next stage of their education.

This includes transitions into:

• Reception
• Year 7
• Post‑16 education (Year 12)

The EHCP must be amended to name the next setting, and there are strict deadlines for when this must happen.

Key Deadlines You Need to Know

These dates aren’t flexible. They’re set in law to protect families and ensure a smooth transition.

15th February

Your Local Authority must issue an updated EHCP naming the next setting for children moving into:

• Reception
• Year 7

31st March

The updated EHCP must be issued for young people moving into:

• Year 12 (post‑16 education)

These deadlines ensure you have enough time to prepare, visit settings, and, if needed, challenge the placement named.

Why These Dates Matter

A named setting isn’t just a line on a document. It shapes:

• The support your child will receive
• How well their transition is planned
• Their sense of stability and confidence
• Your ability to appeal or request changes

When Local Authorities miss these deadlines, families are left in limbo, unsure where their child will be in September and unable to plan ahead.

That’s why these dates are so important, and why it’s essential to keep an eye on the process.

What If Your Local Authority Misses the Deadline?

If your Local Authority hasn’t stuck to the legal timescales, you’re not alone, and you’re not stuck.

There are clear steps you can take to challenge delays and ensure your child’s rights are upheld. At SEND Tutoring, we regularly support families through this process, helping them understand:

• What the law says
• What the Local Authority should be doing
• What your next steps can be
• How to advocate effectively for your child

You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Need Support? We’re Here to Help

Phase transfer can feel overwhelming, especially if communication is slow or deadlines are missed. If you’re unsure what to do next, or you want guidance on how to move things forward, get in touch.

We’re here to help you understand the process, feel confident in your rights, and make sure your child gets the smooth, supported transition they deserve.

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Resources and Insights 

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Ella Jones

If you’re looking for support for a child or young person with special educational needs or a disability, book a free call with us today and find out how we can help.