Phase transfer
When a child with an EHC plan moves to a new stage of school, like primary to secondary. The plan must name the next school by a set date, usually 15 February.
Applies in England
Before a child with an EHC plan EHCP A legal document, used in England, that sets out a child's needs and the support they must get. It is for children who need more help than their school can give on its own. Read the full definition of EHCP moves between phases of education, for example infant to junior, primary to secondary, or school to college, the plan must be reviewed and amended to name the new placement. For moves between school phases the amended plan must be issued by 15 February in the year of the move. For moves into post-16 education the deadline is 31 March.
These are hard deadlines, and missing them is one of the most common council failures. If the date passes without a final amended plan you can complain to the council and escalate, and if you disagree with the school that is named you can appeal Appeal A formal challenge to the SEND Tribunal about a council's EHC decision. It is free to bring, and you do not need a lawyer. Read the full definition of Appeal to the SEND Tribunal.
Knowing the date is the lever. Ask the council in the autumn term which deadline applies to your child and when the review will happen.
Related words
Where this comes from
- SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years , Department for Education. Checked 2026-08-14.
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