This is the day your appeal is formally heard by the SEND tribunal.
Most hearings now take place remotely via video call, although some may be in person or hybrid (a mix of online and in person).
You’ll receive joining instructions in advance, along with information about who will attend and what to expect.
A tribunal judge leads the hearing, and there may be one or two specialist panel members with expertise in education, health or social care.
The hearing is your opportunity to:
- explain your child’s needs
- share your perspective
- ask questions
- challenge the local authority’s evidence
- make a closing summary at the end
You do not need to use legal language — the tribunal wants to hear your lived experience and your child’s story.
What will help you?
- understanding what will happen on the day
- knowing how to join the hearing
- feeling confident to speak up
- preparing to respond to questions
- planning your closing comments
Guidance and advice
What to expect?
- the hearing begins with introductions
- the judge explains how the day will run and any ground rules (e.g., muting, not recording)
- if your appeal includes sections B, F or I, the working document is discussed early in the hearing
- you and the LA each take turns presenting your views
- witnesses give evidence one at a time. You can ask them questions (and the LA can too)
- at the end, you may be invited to give a final summary
Joining the hearing (remote hearings)
- you will receive a joining link and instructions by email
- you may be asked to do a test log in beforehand
- on the day, join 5–10 minutes early
- if your connection drops, don’t worry — the panel will wait for you to rejoin
- you can request breaks anytime
Speaking at the hearing
The judge might ask questions like:
- “how is your child managing at home?”
- “what part of the plan is not working?”
You don’t need to retell the whole history — the panel has already read the documents. Focus on:
key difficulties
- what support is missing
- what progress or problems you’re seeing
You may use notes, documents or ask someone to help you speak if needed.
Can my child or young person attend the hearing?
The judge likes to say hello to the child, whatever their age. It may help but it is not mandatory. They can decide on the day whether to attend.
They may wish to stay for the whole appeal or just want to say a quick hello.
The judge may ask them a few questions to get to know them a bit better.
Asking questions
You can ask questions to the LA or to witnesses.
It helps to write them down beforehand and note the page numbers in your bundle for reference.
Have your questions prepared in a list and tick them off as you go.
Closing the hearing
You may be invited to give a closing summary.
You can write your summary in advance and read it out. This helps keep things clear and calm.
After the hearing
You won't get a decision on the day.
The tribunal will send you their written decision after the hearing.
Parent checklist
- I know the time, date and how to join the hearing
- I tested my device and internet connection
- I have my bundle, working document and notes ready
- My witnesses have everything they need
- I have someone with me for support (if I want this)
- I prepared key points and any questions
- I wrotedown my closing comments
- I know I can ask for breaks
Tribunal helpline for technical issues: 0330 808 9405