Improving the EHCP Process - Agilisys Transform’s Response to The Education Committee

The Education Committee has called for evidence on how to improve the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) process, recognising the urgent need for reform. With demand for EHCPs rising by 140% since 2015 and only half being completed within the statutory 20-week timeframe, councils need support.​

Our response highlights how generative AI can help address these challenges by:​

• Reducing the time taken to create EHCPs, allowing caseworkers to focus on quality. ​

• Ensuring consistency and fairness in EHCPs, reducing disputes and appeals. ​

• Enhancing communication with families through clearer, more accessible information. ​

• Supporting caseworkers by improving access to relevant information. ​

AI presents a practical, immediate solution to some of the biggest inefficiencies in the EHCP process, ensuring that children receive the support they need without unnecessary delays. As the Education Committee considers reforms, it is critical that technology is part of the conversation.​

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Education Minister Announces Ambitious SEND Reform Agenda

SEND SCREENING POLICY

The Case for a Universal SEND Screener in Early Primary

A universal screening tool for all Year 1 students in English primary schools is being proposed to identify early signs of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The light-touch assessment would evaluate key cognitive skills, including phonics, vocabulary, working memory, and sustained attention. Administered by teachers, the screening aims to provide individual profiles of students' strengths and weaknesses, guiding tailored classroom support and early interventions. This proactive approach seeks to address learning difficulties before they become entrenched, promoting better educational outcomes for all students.

As a former SEND Teacher, Caseworker, and EHCP Writer, I’m heartened by the government’s SEND Crisis Review. EHCPs are vital for ensuring children with SEND get the right support, yet overburdened caseworkers often struggle with manual drafting, leading to inconsistencies.​

AI can change this. By automating and enhancing EHCP creation, we can ensure plans are consistently high-quality, fully capturing each child's needs. Agilisys Transform’s EHCP Plus tool is designed to do just that - personalising plans to local authority templates and improving outcomes for children.​

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EDUCATION REFORM

Year-Round Special Schools are the Radical Approach We Need

To address the capacity crisis in special education, a proposal suggests operating special schools year-round, for 50 weeks annually. This model would allow students to attend when possible, accommodating health needs and family schedules without penalties for absences. Families could benefit from more affordable vacation options and increased quality time. For staff, flexible leave could enhance recruitment and retention, while necessitating larger leadership teams to manage operations effectively. This approach aims to provide consistent support for students and alleviate pressures on both families and educators.

EDUCATION POLICY

Ofsted to Publish Number of SEND Kids, Absence Data

Ofsted proposes a new inspection model featuring school report cards that assess nine key areas, including safeguarding. Inspections will use a five-point rating system and eliminate ungraded inspections. A focus on inclusion, removal of curriculum deep dives, and transparent criteria aim to improve educational standards nationwide.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE

Financial ‘Cliff Edge’ Facing Bristol City Council due to SEND Needs

Overwhelmed by EHCP Demands? Agilisys has the Solution

Councils across the UK are facing a growing challenge: the number of EHCPs is increasing, but resources aren't keeping pace. This leads to backlogs, delays, and increased pressure on your team. In 2023, less than half of all new EHCPs were issued within the 20-week statutory timeframe. ​

​The Agilisys EHCP Agency allows councils to focus on what matters – providing high quality support for children. This is achieved by:​

1. Reducing backlogs and improving timeliness: The agency's AI-powered EHCP Drafting tool automates draft creation, saving an average of 5 hours per plan. This allows for faster processing of EHCPs, helping councils meet the 20-week statutory timeframe and reduce backlogs,.

2. ​Improving accuracy and consistency: The EHCP Drafting tool ensures consistency and accuracy in plan development, minimising errors and reducing the need for revisions​.

3. Enhance outcomes: By streamlining processes and reducing backlogs, the agency ensures children and young people can access the services and provisions outlined in their EHCPs faster.​

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YOUR FEEDBACK MATTERS🗳️