What happens to an EHC plan after 16, and when does it end?

The short answer

An EHC plan does not end because a young person turns 16, 18 or 19. In England, it can continue while the young person remains in education or training and the local authority decides that the plan is still necessary. It may cover school sixth form, further education, a supported internship or an apprenticeship, but it does not continue into higher education. Being under 25 does not create an automatic entitlement. The local authority must review the plan and follow the formal ceasing process before ending it, and the young person has the main decision-making rights after compulsory school age.

• The plan is reviewed against education and training needs, not ended at a fixed birthday.
• After compulsory school age, EHC-plan rights generally belong to the young person.
• Parents can remain involved when the young person wants their support.
• A post-16 plan should describe clear outcomes and the provision needed to reach them.
• The plan can support further education, training, supported internships and apprenticeships.
• EHC plans do not continue into university or other higher education.
• A local authority must issue a formal decision before ceasing to maintain a plan.