Choosing or changing school when a child has a Statement of SEN in Northern Ireland
If a child already has a Statement of SEN, school placement is handled through the Education Authority’s SEN process rather than the ordinary admissions application route. Placement is discussed with parents as part of the statement and annual-review process.
Northern Ireland has its own SEN framework. England EHCP, Wales IDP and Scotland CSP guidance do not apply here.
If the child already has a statement
EA’s 2026 admissions guidance says parents of a child with a Statement of SEN should not make the usual admissions application on EA Connect for the relevant transfer. The Statutory Assessment and Review Service arranges placement through the SEN process.
If statutory assessment is still underway
If the child is still undergoing statutory assessment and does not yet have a Statement of SEN, current EA guidance says parents should still make the ordinary school application by the relevant admissions deadline.
What to discuss with the EA
Ask how the proposed school will meet the provision in the statement, what specialist resources or support are available, travel implications, transition arrangements and what happens if the preferred placement cannot be named.
Use the annual review early
For major transitions such as moving to post-primary, raise placement questions early in the annual-review cycle. Keep written records of preferences, visits, advice and the reasons given for placement decisions.
Official and authoritative sources
Department of Education NI — SEN Code of Practice
Education Authority — SEN Code of Practice and three stages
Education Authority — Special Educational Needs (SEN)
nidirect — Special educational needs
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