Why Detailed Annual Reviews for Year 5 and Year 10 are Crucial Ahead of Phase Transfer

Annual reviews of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are important checkpoints in a child or young person’s educational journey. Among these, the Year 5 and Year 10 reviews carry extra weight because they directly precede key phase transfers: from primary to secondary school and from secondary school to further education or training. Preparing thoroughly for these reviews strengthens the case for the right support after the transfer, especially with significant EHCP reforms planned for spring 2026.

The Importance of Year 5 and Year 10 Reviews

Year 5 and Year 10 reviews are more than routine updates. They set the foundation for the next stage of education. When the EHCP is detailed and accurate at these points, parents and young people have a stronger position to request necessary adjustments or additional support before the phase transfer happens.

For example, a Year 5 review that clearly outlines a child’s learning needs, strengths, and challenges will help secondary schools plan appropriate support from day one. Similarly, a Year 10 review that captures a young person’s aspirations, progress, and any emerging needs will guide post-16 providers in offering tailored support.

Why Detailed EHCPs Matter More Now

The government plans to introduce new EHCP reforms in spring 2026. These changes aim to improve the EHCP process but also mean that the current plans should be as comprehensive as possible before the reforms take effect. A detailed EHCP before phase transfer ensures:

• Clear evidence of needs and progress

• Specific recommendations for support and adjustments

• Stronger legal backing for requests during phase transfer

  
  

Without detailed information, parents and young people risk losing momentum or facing delays in getting the right help once they move to the next phase.

Understanding the Annual Review Timeline

Annual reviews follow a set timeline that schools and local authorities must adhere to. Knowing this timeline helps parents stay on top of paperwork and deadlines:

• Notification: The school or local authority should notify parents and young people about the review date well in advance.

• Gathering information: Reports from teachers, therapists, and other professionals are collected. Parents should request copies early to review.

• Review meeting: The meeting discusses progress, challenges, and any changes needed in the EHCP.

• Decision and amendments: After the meeting, the local authority decides whether to amend the EHCP based on the review.

  
  

Parents should actively chase paperwork and reports to have enough time to read and understand them before the meeting. Being well-prepared leads to more productive discussions and better advocacy.

How to Prepare for Year 5 and Year 10 Reviews

Preparation is key to making the most of these critical reviews. Here are practical steps parents and young people can take:

• Request all relevant reports early

• Make notes on progress and any concerns

• List specific support or changes needed for the next phase

• Consider the young person’s views and aspirations

• Practice asking clear questions and making requests during the meeting

  
  

For example, if a child has developed new sensory needs in Year 5, parents should ensure these are documented so secondary schools can plan accordingly. In Year 10, if a young person wants to pursue vocational training, the EHCP should reflect this to guide post-16 support.

Advocating Confidently During the Review

The more informed parents and young people are, the more confident they become in advocating for the right support. Understanding the EHCP, the child’s needs, and the phase transfer process helps in:

• Asking for specific amendments or additions

• Challenging decisions that don’t reflect the child’s needs

• Ensuring the EHCP supports the transition smoothly

  
  

Confidence comes from preparation and knowledge. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or additional meetings if needed.

What Happens After the Review?

Once the review is complete, the local authority will decide whether to amend the EHCP. If amendments are made, they should be detailed and reflect the discussion points from the review. Parents should:

• Review the amended EHCP carefully

• Check that all agreed changes are included

• Keep copies of all documents for future reference

  
  

If the EHCP is not amended as expected, parents can request a disagreement resolution or appeal.

Final Thoughts on Year 5 and Year 10 Reviews

Year 5 and Year 10 annual reviews are pivotal moments to ensure the EHCP fully reflects the child or young person’s needs before a phase transfer. Detailed, well-prepared reviews give parents and young people a stronger voice and better chances of securing the right support in the next stage of education.

Start early, gather all information, and approach the review meeting informed and confident. This preparation will pay off by making the transition smoother and more successful.

Taking these steps now is especially important with the upcoming EHCP reforms in 2026. A clear, detailed EHCP today builds a solid foundation for the future.