We know that facing a SEND tribunal is daunting but it's also one of the most powerful steps that parents and professionals can take to secure the right support for a child.

For many families, the tribunal process is the first time they’ve had the opportunity to present their child’s needs directly to an independent judge, a rare moment where their voice must be heard. But it can also be an overwhelming and unfamiliar experience, full of legal language, tight deadlines and pressure to “get it right.”

As parents and teachers, we often find ourselves navigating this process without formal training - learning as we go, while fighting for what our child needs and deserves.

How can we make the most of this crucial opportunity?

What do we need to know to feel prepared, calm and in control?

How can we ensure equity and fairness in a system that often feels stacked against us?

We've got all the information you need in our webinar on 19 August 2025. Led by Sunshine Support's Head of Advocacy Kelly Jarvis and SEND Legal Consultant Jessica Ward, you'll get a comprehensive and supportive walk-through of what to expect.

What you will learn:

• What is a tribunal?
• Why would a tribunal be needed?
• How to appeal the content of an EHCP
• Timescales
• How to gather evidence and create your case
• What happens before the tribunal?
• What is a 'bundle' and what should you do with it?
• What to expect on the day; location, attendees, witness panel, representatives, expert witnesses, judging panel, timescales etc
• Court room etiquette (the bits we aren't taught as parents and SEND professionals!)
• What happens in the hearing room itself and what can happen outside of the hearing room on the day
• Reasonable adjustments for disabilities
• Outcomes and decisions

Whether you’re about to begin a tribunal process or just want to understand it better, this webinar will provide vital guidance allowing you to approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Why join live?

Attending live isn’t just about watching a webinar, it’s about being part of something powerful in real time.

Here’s what you get when you join us live at Sunshine Support:

✅ You get your questions answered…
Our sessions always include a live Q&A with our expert speakers where you can ask what’s on your mind and get tailored advice that you won’t find on Google.

✅ You get to feel seen and understood
There’s something special about joining other parents who get it. You’ll be in a room (virtually!) with people who understand the challenges you’re facing; they will share the same fears and challenges that you have and you’ll leave feeling less alone.

✅ You get practical takeaways you can use right away
We don’t just talk theory. You’ll leave the webinar with real strategies and a better understanding of how to support your child.

✅ There is no pressure – just come as you are
Your camera won’t be on so come in your PJs if that’s what’s comfy. Or you can listen in while doing the washing up or sitting with a cuppa. There’s no judgment, just support.

We get your life is unpredictable and you might not be able to make it – that’s OK. As long as you have purchased a ticket, we’ll send you the full replay within 24 hours of the webinar taking place.

The important bits you need to know:

• All webinars are recorded except where we explicitly state they will not be
• When you sign up, we will send you the link to the webinar. You’ll get reminder emails in the run-up to the event so long as you don’t unsubscribe from Eventbrite emails
• When you join the webinar your camera and microphone are automatically turned off so we cannot see or hear you.
• If you are delayed then don’t worry about joining late.
• If something comes up and you cannot make it then don’t worry as all ticketholders are sent a link to the recording of the webinar the next day. This is then available to you for 30 days.
• Slides, references and CPD certificates are also sent out the next day.
• Join live and you have the chance to ask any questions you might have.
• Any questions or queries, then please email them through to events@sunshine-support.org.uk

D ISCLAIMER

The views expressed in the webinar are of the presenter and not Sunshine Support as an organisation. The information detailed on this page is accurate at the time of publishing. We reserve the right to change the speaker at any time. There maybe events outside of our control that contribute to this and our intention will always be to ensure the webinar goes ahead and meets the brief as closely as possible.