- Published 23 February 2026; consultation closed 18 May 2026.
- Proposes four levels of support and Individual Support Plans from September 2029.
- EHCPs stay for the most complex needs.
- No changes to existing EHCP support before at least September 2030.
What did the White Paper propose?
The Schools White Paper, "Every Child Achieving and Thriving", includes major proposals for SEND in England:12
| Proposal | What it means |
|---|---|
| Four levels of support | Universal, targeted, targeted plus and specialist |
| Individual Support Plans | Statutory digital plans, reviewed at least annually, from September 2029 |
| EHCPs | Kept for children with the most complex needs |
| Reassessment | EHCP reassessment at transitions between phases from 2029 |
| More inclusion in mainstream | Stronger expectations for mainstream schools' universal offer |
What happens to existing EHCPs?
The government says no changes to support received through EHCPs would take place before at least September 2030.1 Until new law is passed, the current law and the SEND Code of Practice still apply.3
What does it mean for autistic children?
Many autistic children are supported through SEN support today, so the "universal" and "targeted" levels, and Individual Support Plans, could shape their daily experience. Good universal practice, like visual timetables, predictable routines and calm spaces, matters more than ever.
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