Guidance on Accessing HOPECFI for Children in Elective Home Education or School Settings

If your child is receiving education through an Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) package as part of Elective Home Education, they may be eligible to attend the HOPE Centre for Inclusion (HOPECFI) for up to 16 hours per week during term time and within standard school hours.

If your child is currently enrolled in a school, we advise you to speak directly with the school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo). They will be able to provide guidance on potential funding options and help coordinate support. While HOPECFI cannot be formally named in an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), a school can request an EHCP review at any time if they believe that attending HOPECFI would benefit your child. The outcome of such a review may allow for adjustments to be made to reflect this additional provision. For children who are enrolled in school but are not attending regularly, for example, due to a reduced timetable, lack of school resources, health issues, behavioural needs, or other challenges, we again recommend that parents engage with the school SENCo to explore alternative or supplementary provision such as HOPECFI.

Privately Registered Children and Funding Options

Parents who choose to register their child at HOPECFI independently may be eligible for financial assistance from the Local Authority or central government. This may apply if the parent is working or undertaking education or training; the child has an EHCP and is in receipt of an EOTAS package; or the child is supported by professionals such as SENIT (Special Educational Needs and Inclusion Team). In such cases, we recommend discussing your child’s circumstances with the relevant professional or service involved in their care or education. They may be able to guide you in securing appropriate funding or support to enable your child to attend HOPECFI.