How does the process work? 

When your child is in receipt of an EHCP (or is in the process of acquiring one), you may request a school place. This is done through the local authority. 

The local authority will formally consult the school by sending paperwork and requesting a place. 

The school will review the consultation and give a response (please see below).

Do you have a waiting list? 

No. SEND law means that schools cannot have waiting lists. Schools will give a view as to whether they can meet need and are an appropriate setting, and the Local Authority are responsible for deciding which young people take available spaces. 

What might your response be? 

Response to consultation will typically be one of three things:  

1. Yes we can meet need and we have a space.  

2. Yes we can meet need but admission currently is incompatible with the efficient education of others (as we are over capacity)  

3. No we cannot meet need as we are not an appropriate setting. 

What happens if my child is refused a place? 

Typically, the local authority would continue to consult with appropriate schools, until an appropriate placement can be found. Parents have the right to appeal a local authority decision. 

Can I do anything to increase the chances of my child gaining a place? 

Practically, not really. We would advise you fully read our admissions policy, visit school and other similar schools so that you can make an informed decision. It would also be sensible to be fully aware of Southend’s local offer. 

How does transition work? 

This will be done in conjunction with the family. Once a space has been offered, the school will liaise with parents/carers about the best transition plan, typically this involves a few visits before starting on a full time basis. 

This is usually in collaboration with the current setting (school/nursery). Once a place has been confirmed, staff will make contact to arrange home sessions/in school sessions as appropriate. 

How does transport work? 

When a place has been offered, families are encouraged to apply for transport via the local authority if they live more than 2 miles from school (primary) or 3 miles from school (secondary). Our current transport provider is Vecteo 

The decision to offer transport does not rest with the school. 

My child has a 1:1 at school, will they have 1:1 at The St Christopher School? 

We try not to have named 1:1 support staff as it can contribute to a dependence on adult support. We do ensure that there is suitable support in each class. 

Will my child automatically receive speech and language therapy? 

The speech and language therapy team work across the school, upskilling staff to meet learners’ individual needs. Learners will benefit from these expertise but may not receive direct 1:1 therapy. 

If your child is in receipt of therapy via the local authority, this support will continue. 

Are we able to cater for learners with physical disabilities? 

Our site is fully accessible, however we do not currently have any learners on roll who are non-ambulant. 

Do we take learners from outside of Southend? 

Other local authorities may request places at the school. 

Are there any services that can help/support? 

Please see Southend’s local offer. 

There are support groups, including: 

Little Heroes 

Southend Health and Wellbeing Information Point SHIP 

Special Educational Needs & Disability Information, Advice & Support Service (SENDIASS)