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Collaborative Outcomes Meetings Acronyms

AcronymMeaning
Assessment and Reviewing Officer (ARO)An ARO will coordinate the statutory needs assessment process and book the COM. They ensure legal statutory timeframes are met. The ARO will attend the COM and keep a record of what is discussed in the meeting.
Educational Psychologist (EP)Educational Psychologist – an EP will work with your child as part of the statutory needs assessment process. They will often observe and/or work with a child/young person them to complete some assessments to understand their strengths and identify any special educational needs. They will lead the COM and ensure everyone has a chance to share their thoughts and feelings.
Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities Coordinator (SENCO/ SENDCO)The SENCO is the person in school who has responsibility for coordinating support for any pupils with Special Educational Needs. They promote inclusion within schools and liaise with external professionals as needed. Sometimes they are called SENDCO – Special Educational Needs and/or Disability Coordinator. They will be at the COMs to share the views and thoughts on behalf of the educational setting.
Education Health and Care needs assessment (EHC needs assessment)An EHC needs assessment is the start of the process to see whether an EHC plan is required. Many different assessments and pieces of evidence are analysed to identify if the needs impact on a child or young person’s ability to access education in a way that cannot be supported through the setting’s own SEN support. Find out more on Somerset’s SEND Local Offer Somerset's Local offer
Education Health and Care plan (EHC plan)A statutory document which outlines strengths, areas of need, outcomes, and provision needed for a child/young person. This is a legal document and should be reviewed annually by the child/young person and the team supporting them. Find out more on Somerset’s SEND Local Offer Education, Health and Care plans
Collaborative Outcomes Meeting (COM)The Collaborative Outcomes Meeting is part of the statutory needs assessment process and aims to bring together the family and child/young person with any professionals involved, to work together to agree the support needed (provisions) and goals (outcomes) for the child/young person. Everyone in the meeting has a unique perspective and will be able to share their views and expertise to provide a personalised plan to support.