Understanding the IEP process
Every child learns in their own unique way—and every child has the right to an education that recognises their strengths, supports their needs, and helps them grow.
One of the key ways schools and families can work together to support children with disability or additional needs is through an Individual Education Plan (IEP).
What is an IEP?
An Individual Education Plan (IEP)—also known as an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) or Personalised Learning Plan (PLP)—is a tailored plan developed for students who need extra support to participate in learning.
A good IEP is not just about academic achievement. It’s about helping your child feel safe, included, and supported at school.
An effective IEP will include:
- Your child’s strengths, interests, and what they enjoy
- Clear and achievable goals for learning and participation
- Reasonable adjustments to help your child access the curriculum
- Strategies that support learning, communication, social inclusion, and wellbeing
It’s a living document that grows with your child. It should reflect who they are as a whole person, not just their challenges.
Most importantly, the IEP process is a partnership. It brings you and the school together to plan for your child’s success.
Getting ready for the IEP meeting
Think of the IEP meeting as a conversation—not just a formality. It’s your chance to share what you know best: your child.
Before the meeting:
- Think about what your child enjoys or finds hard at school, depending on their age and communication you may be able to talk to your child to get their input too
- Reflect on your hopes for your child this year and beyond
- Jot down:
– What helps your child learn
– What helps them stay calm and feel safe
– What they’re proud of
– Any challenges and strategies that work
– Relevant health or therapy updates
You can also bring along reports or letters from professionals who work with your child.
Who attends IEP meetings?
IEP meetings are a team effort. Usually, you’ll meet with:
- Your child’s classroom teacher
- A Learning and Support Teacher or officer
- A school leader (like the principal, deputy, or assistant principal)
- You, as the parent or carer
Depending on their age and confidence, your child may also be invited—and encouraged—to take part in the meeting.
You’re welcome to bring someone with you for support, such as a partner, family member, friend, or even a professional (like an allied health therapist). Just let the school know in advance if someone else will be attending.
What happens during the IEP meeting?
The IEP meeting should be a respectful, two-way conversation where everyone’s input is valued—including yours.
Together, you’ll:
- Set short-term, achievable goals for your child
- Discuss what adjustments and strategies will be used
- Agree on how progress will be measured and shared
A strong IEP includes goals for more than just learning. It should also reflect your child’s social skills, independence, and sense of belonging at school.
After the meeting: what to expect
After the meeting, the school should send you a draft copy of the IEP. Take time to read through it carefully. Make sure it reflects the conversation you had, including:
- Your child’s strengths
- The agreed goals
- The supports and adjustments discussed
If something doesn’t look right or if important points are missing, it’s okay to contact the school and ask for changes. Once you’re happy with the plan, you can sign it and return it to the school.
Tip: Sending a quick thank-you email after the meeting is a nice way to build the relationship with school staff. You can also use this as an opportunity to gently remind them of your big-picture hopes for your child.
How often are IEP meetings held?
EP meetings should happen at least twice a year—usually once early in Term 1, and again around mid-year. But you can ask for an IEP meeting anytime if:
- Your child’s needs have changed
- Something isn’t working
- You’d like to review or update their goals
Remember: An IEP is not a ‘set and forget document. It’s a working plan that can evolve alongside your child.’