IEP in Scotland: How It Works and How It Differs from a CSP
Schools may use an Individualised Educational Programme or other planning format to organise support. An IEP is not the same thing as a statutory Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP).
Scotland uses the Additional Support for Learning framework. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) is not the Scottish equivalent of an EHCP for every learner; it has specific statutory criteria.
IEP and CSP are different
A CSP has statutory criteria under the Additional Support for Learning legislation. An IEP is a planning tool and does not by itself create the same statutory framework.
What to look for
A useful plan should make priorities, support, responsibilities and review arrangements understandable to the family and staff.
If support is not working
Ask for a review of needs and provision and consider whether a specific assessment, CSP consideration or formal disagreement route is appropriate.
Common parent questions
Does every child with additional support needs need an IEP?
Not necessarily. Scottish schools may use different planning approaches depending on the child’s needs and local arrangements. Ask what written plan is being used and how it is reviewed.
Is a Scottish IEP the same as a CSP?
No. An IEP is an educational planning tool. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) has specific legal criteria and duties under Scotland’s additional support for learning framework.
What should I ask at an IEP review?
Ask whether targets are measurable, which supports are being delivered, what progress evidence exists, and whether further assessment or consideration of a CSP is appropriate.
Official and authoritative sources
Scottish Government — Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice (2026)
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