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How do SENCOs write strong EHCP contributions and one-page profiles?

What local authorities need from schools, how to describe needs and provision clearly, and making the pupil's voice heard.

By The Autism Kit teamUpdated Sep 27, 2026 · 1 min read
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The short answer

Strong school contributions describe the pupil's needs with specific, dated examples, show what support has been tried through the graduated approach and what happened, and suggest provision that is specific and quantified. Include the pupil's own views, for example through a one-page profile. Local authorities decide on assessment and plans, but clear school evidence makes decisions faster and better.

Key takeaways
  • Describe needs with specific, dated examples.
  • Show what's been tried and what happened.
  • Suggest provision that's specific and quantified.
  • Include the pupil's voice.

What do local authorities need from schools?

During an EHC needs assessment, the local authority gathers advice from the school, parents and professionals.2 The SEND Code of Practice expects evidence of the action already taken through SEN support.1

How do I describe needs clearly?

Vague vs. specific
VagueSpecific
Struggles with changeHid under the table after 5 of 6 unannounced timetable changes in October
Has sensory issuesCovers ears and leaves the dining hall daily; eats in a quiet room since November
Needs support with communicationUses 2 to 3 word phrases; uses a picture board to request help

How do I write provision?

Say what, who, how often and for how long: "A visual timetable reviewed with a TA at the start of each lesson" or "10 minutes of movement break twice daily with a trained adult."

How do I include the pupil's voice?

Try
  • A one-page profile written with the pupil
  • Pictures, symbols or drawings
  • Quotes in the pupil's own words
Skip
  • Adults speaking for the pupil without asking
  • Only describing difficulties
Free printable: one-page pupil profilePDF · 1 page · strengths, needs and what helps, in the pupil's words
Download Free printable: one-page pupil profile

What can I do before the next request?

0 of 3 done

For families: How do I apply for an EHCP?

Common questions

Needs describe what the pupil finds hard and why. Provision describes exactly what support will be given, by whom and how often.

Sources

  1. GOV.UK: SEND code of practice, 0 to 25 years. gov.uk
  2. IPSEA: What happens in an EHC needs assessment. ipsea.org.uk

This guide shares general information and our team's perspective, based on the sources above. Rules and services differ by country, region and school, so always check your local guidance and your organisation's policies. How we write our guides.

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