EHCP Phase Transfers: How Do They Affect the Annual Review?

Parents often ask how an upcoming phase transfer affects the timing and purpose of their child’s EHCP Annual Review, particularly when they are trying to plan ahead for a change of school.

In a recent video on our Education Law TikTok channel, Beverley Watkins, Managing Partner at Watkins Solicitors, explains how phase transfers change the usual Annual Review timetable and what parents should expect.

The usual timing of an Annual Review

Beverley explains that an Annual Review should normally take place around the anniversary of when the EHCP was first issued.

For example, if a child’s EHCP was issued in May 2024, the first Annual Review would usually take place in May 2025, with the next one in May 2026.

What changes when there is a phase transfer

Where a child is due to move between stages of education, such as from primary to secondary school, the Annual Review needs to be brought forward.

Beverley explains that in phase transfer years, the Annual Review should take place during the autumn term before the transfer. This allows decisions about placement and provision to be made in good time.

For example, where a child is in Year 6 and transferring to secondary school, the Annual Review should take place before Christmas in Year 6, rather than waiting until the anniversary date later in the academic year.

Planning ahead for school placement

Beverley also explains that parents should be thinking about potential school placements earlier than the Annual Review itself.

In practice, this often means beginning to explore secondary school options during Year 5, so that by the time the Annual Review takes place in the autumn term of Year 6, parents have a clearer idea of the placement they are seeking.

Why this timing matters

Understanding how phase transfers affect the Annual Review process is important. If the review is not brought forward when required, this can lead to delays and uncertainty around school placement for the following September.

Support with phase transfers and Annual Reviews

Our Education Law team regularly supports parents and carers with phase transfers, Annual Reviews and school placement issues. This includes advising on timing, preparing for reviews and addressing concerns where the process is not followed correctly.

Watch the video and get support

The video, featuring Beverley Watkins answering this parent question, is available on our Education Law TikTok channel.

If you would like advice or support with a phase transfer or an EHCP Annual Review, our specialist Education Law team is here to help.

You can contact us by emailing educationdept@watkinssolicitors.co.uk or calling 0117 939 0350 to discuss your situation and next steps.