ABSTRACT
The Code of Practice is a comprehensive document, representing an extremely useful source of reference for parents and other parties. It details parental rights and expectations and gives parents and their children a voice on how help should be planned and provided in schools. The Code reinforces key principles and values, some established and enshrined in legislation. These include an increased emphasis on the rights of children and the recognition that their development and welfare are of paramount importance (Children Act 1989). The rights of parents to be active and equal partners in supporting children experiencing special educational needs are further reinforced. The responsibilities of parents towards their child’s need to receive regular and efficient education remain as they were under the Education Act 1944. The responsibilities and accountability of schools, in particular, receive greater emphasis; these are made explicit under School Action and School Action Plus. The duties of LEAs to provide services to help them work in partnership with parents are expanded to require the provision of independent mediation.
