Choosing a School or College

We get lots of calls from parent or carers asking for advice around school placements.

The process for choosing a school place is different for children who have SEN Support at school, compared to those children and young people with an EHC Plan. However, both pathways require research and careful consideration.

It is important that you, and your child or young person, feel confident that a school or setting is right for your child and can meet their special educational needs.

If you are able, we would always advise visiting any potential new schools or settings, to get a feel for it, see how things are laid out, explore the building and the school day, talk to the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) and look at how the setting delivers their learning.

The Local Authorities are required to list the mainstream schools and specialist schools on their Local Offers. You can also read about admissions on the Admissions link.

Nottingham City

Nottinghamshire County

There are a range of different types of school; including mainstream, academies and specialist schools, some which are under local authority control and some which are not. If you want a particular school, it is important to know what type it is.

Notts special educational needs and disabilities SEND Local Offer. Information services and support all in one place.

SEND Local Offer

The Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council SEND Local Offers are a great resource for finding events, support and activities in your area.

City Council County Council