Education / Free editable template

SEN support graduated approach template

The graduated approach adds support step by step as a pupil's needs become clearer. This example draws it as a staircase, from quality first teaching and a concern being raised, through SEN support with its assess, plan, do, review cycle, to an EHC needs assessment and an EHC plan, with who leads each step and the key timescales.

This is a planning example based on the SEND Code of Practice in England. Follow your local authority's local offer and your SENCo's guidance.

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SEN support graduated approach example showing five steps from teaching to an ehc plan, who leads each step and the timescales, the assess, plan, do, review cycle
Everything in this example is editable. Replace the labels, move the shapes and adapt the layout to your work.

How to use this template

  1. Start with quality teaching

    Show the support every pupil gets in class, then what happens when a teacher raises a concern.

  2. Draw the SEN support cycle

    Show how the school assesses, plans, does and reviews support with parents and the pupil, usually each term.

  3. Add the statutory steps

    Add the request for an EHC needs assessment and the EHC plan, with the local authority's timescales.

Questions about this template

Can I add our own interventions to each step?

Yes. Edit the text under each step to list the support your school offers, and name the people responsible beneath it.

Do I need an account to use it?

No. Open the template and edit it in your browser. Your work saves on this device. An account is optional if you want to sync your workspace.

Can I export the finished diagram?

Yes. Use Export in the editor to save a PNG, SVG or PDF, or download an editable .epicdraw backup.

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