Welcome to the Barnet Local Offer

Click below for more information about services and support available to families affected by SEND in Barnet.

 

 

Section 19 Policy

Section 19 - education when a child cannot attend school
If your child (aged 5-16) cannot attend school because of illness, permanent exclusion, or other exceptional reasons, the council has a legal duty under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 to arrange suitable education - which may be full‑time or, if it’s in your child’s best interests, part‑time. We look at each case individually, considering your child’s age, ability, aptitude and any special educational needs, and we work with you and the school to put support in place as quickly as possible. For permanent exclusions, suitable education starts by the sixth school day; for illness, we will consider alternative arrangements where absence reaches 15 school days (continuous or over time). Provision is usually short‑term and focused on helping your child successfully return to school at the earliest opportunity. If your child has an EHC plan, the council responsible for the plan will ensure the right arrangements are made. If you think your child may need Section 19 support, please speak to your school in the first instance or contact the council’s Section 19 officer for advice.

You can read the Section 19 policy here: Attendance and Section 19 of the Education Act (1996) London Borough of Barnet Policy and Process

 

 

SEND Frequently Asked Questions:

Barnet have created a SEND Frequently Asked Questions page that can answer many queries and signpost relevant information, links and services.

 

Part-time timetables for children and young people of compulsory school age.

This guidance is intended to protect both children and young people (YP) as well as schools and education settings, should a reduced/part-time timetable be used, (this is not to be confused with flexi-schooling) and ensure that no child/YP is excluded illegally or unlawfully through a reduced or part-time timetable. This relates to all schools and services providing education to children of compulsory school age, regardless of their arrangements for governance.

Click here for the part-time timetable information sheet

Schools need to notify the LA when a child is on a part time timetable and they can do so by using this Microsoft link:

BELS Part-Time Timetable Notifications – Fill in form