What is an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and what will it mean for a child and their parents if an IEP is suggested?
Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are used in many schools, and some preschools, for children who have identified special educational needs, learning difficulties or disabilities or who are having greater difficulty than most in following the curriculum. An IEP pinpoints areas where a child with learning needs, behavioural problems or disabilities is experiencing difficulties. An IEP contains targets designed to help children who require extra support. They are only used where a child needs something extra or different from others in the class. Wherever possible, the child and parents or carers should be involved in the discussions and review of an IEP. Not all schools use IEPs; some plan and record separately for each child as a matter of routine. Regardless of the system used, a successful IEP (or equivalent) should be an easy to understand, simple to use, working document that is carefully monitored and regularly reviewed to best help the child. All staff who work with the child, in
