A statutory legal document that sets out a child or young person’s special educational needs, the education, health and social care provision required to meet those needs, and the outcomes to be achieved. An EHCP applies to children and young people aged 0–25 who need support beyond what is normally available through mainstream services.

Difference from SEN Support:
An EHCP is a formal, legally enforceable plan issued following a statutory assessment, whereas SEN Support refers to school‑led, non‑statutory support provided from a setting’s existing resources without a legal plan. Most children with special educational needs are supported at SEN Support level and do not require an EHCP.