Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments (EHCNAs)

You will be aware of the increasing number of EHCNA requests which are currently being submitted across Oxfordshire.

A significant proportion of these are being made by schools at the end of each long term—specifically in December, March, and July. This trend was particularly evident at the end of the summer term last year, when a substantial volume of requests was received. 

We kindly ask school leaders to be mindful of the limited availability of Educational Psychology assessments during the summer period. 

Submitting a high number of requests at the end of the summer term may affect the quality and timeliness of assessments. Where schools have previously submitted a large volume of EHCNA requests, the EHCP Casework Team will be in touch to explore the underlying reasons and offer support where needed.

If requests are submitted at the end of the summer term, it is essential that school staff remain available throughout July and August to contribute to the assessment process. This includes completing school reports and maintaining communication with professionals involved in the assessments, which is likely to involve direct meetings. Schools are asked to ensure that, where possible, requests are spread throughout the school year.

If any school is expecting a high number of EHCNAs to be submitted at any time then please do liaise with your EHCP Casework Officer.