IEP, ILP, EHCP, IDP or CSP? School support plans across the UK
A plan’s name does not tell you its legal status. Check the UK nation, the document and the process used to create it.
Written and maintained by Special Education Path Editorial Team
Is there one UK IEP system?
No. Education support is governed separately in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Schools may use terms such as individual education plan (IEP) or individual learning plan (ILP) for working documents, but the statutory frameworks differ. Ask what the full title means in your school.
Find the correct framework
| Nation | School planning and statutory framework | Read next |
|---|---|---|
| England | SEN support may be recorded in a school plan. An EHC plan follows the local authority statutory process. | SEN support in England |
| Wales | The ALN framework uses individual development plans (IDPs) to record ALN and required additional learning provision. | IDPs in Wales |
| Scotland | Schools may use IEPs within additional support planning. A co-ordinated support plan (CSP) has separate statutory criteria. | IEPs in Scotland |
| Northern Ireland | School-level SEN planning is distinct from an Education Authority statement of SEN. | Statements of SEN in Northern Ireland |
What is the difference between an IEP and an ILP?
These labels are not a reliable UK-wide legal distinction. A school may use either for targets and strategies, or use another title. Ask who owns the document, what provision it records, who must implement it and which review or challenge route applies. Compare the content and framework rather than assuming “ILP” is a lower or higher level of entitlement.
Does Scotland have EHCPs?
England's EHCP process is not Scotland's system. Scottish additional support planning can include an IEP and, where the legal criteria are met, a CSP. Not every learner with additional support needs requires a CSP.
Does Wales have EHCPs?
Use Welsh ALN and IDP guidance for education in Wales. An England EHCP is not a Welsh IDP. If a family moves between nations, contact the receiving school and authority about assessment, evidence and interim support.
Are IEPs legal documents?
The answer depends on jurisdiction and the document. A US IDEA IEP, an England school support plan and a Scottish IEP are not interchangeable. A school working plan can still be important evidence of identified needs and agreed support. Ask about the underlying duties rather than assuming a familiar acronym settles enforceability.
Five questions for any support plan
- What needs and strengths does it describe?
- What exactly will staff provide, and when?
- Who is responsible for each action?
- How will progress and delivery be checked?
- When will it be reviewed, and what can we do if we disagree?
Official sources
- England: SEND Code of Practice
- Wales: ALN parent toolkit
- Scotland: additional support code summary
- Northern Ireland: EA SEND information
Use current official guidance for local eligibility, procedures and deadlines. This guide provides educational information.