Parents often contact us to ask questions or attend a virtual open day to learn more about Esland Online School. If you feel the school might be right for your child, the next step is to speak with your Local Authority about exploring a placement.

This usually happens as part of your child’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process, such as during a needs assessment or a review meeting.

Because placements are arranged and funded by Local Authorities, parents work alongside their Local Authority to request and agree a place.

Step 1: Local Authority consultation

What happens
The Local Authority contacts us to ask whether we might be able to meet your child’s needs. They share information about your child, including their EHCP or reports from professionals.

What you need to do
Talk with your Local Authority caseworker and let them know you would like Esland Online School to be considered. Make sure they have up-to-date information about your child. Our placements team can be contacted at consultations@esland.co.uk

Step 2: Review of paperwork

What happens
Our Admissions team carefully reads through the information provided to understand your child’s needs and decide whether we can offer the right support.

What you need to do
You usually won’t need to do anything at this stage, but it can help to ensure the Local Authority has shared all relevant reports and information.

Step 3: Permission to assess

What happens
If we feel Esland Online School could be a good match, we ask the Local Authority for permission to carry out a more detailed assessment.

What you need to do
Stay in touch with your Local Authority and respond to any questions they may have.

Step 4: Assessment meeting

What happens
You and your child (if appropriate) are invited to an online meeting. We explain how the school works, talk through your child’s needs, and discuss what support might be required.

What you need to do
Join the online meeting, ask questions, and share anything you feel is important about your child’s learning, strengths, or challenges.

Step 5: Additional checks (if needed)

What happens
Sometimes we may speak with previous schools or professionals who know your child. This helps us make sure we fully understand their needs and can support them properly.

What you need to do
Provide consent or contact details if requested, and let us know if there is anyone you feel we should speak to.

Step 6: Decision and formal offer

What happens
If we can offer a place, we send a formal offer to the Local Authority. The Local Authority usually takes this offer to a funding panel for final approval. Once approved, we contact you to plan your child’s move into the school.

What you need to do
Keep in touch with your Local Authority while approval is confirmed. Once the placement is agreed, work with us to support your child’s transition into Esland Online School.