Yes.

In education law, the term “parent” includes:

  • people with parental responsibility of a child or young person, as well as
  • people who have care of a child or young person (for example, a grandparent who a child lives with or a foster carer).

This is what “parent” means in the law and guidance about special educational needs including the Children and Families Act 2014, The SEND Regulations 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice 2015.

Therefore you are considered a “parent” and have rights in section 51 of the Children and Families Act 2014 to make an appeal as such.

Please also note the rules for legal aid are different for foster carers and you are likely to be eligible. Please see our information for foster carers on our website to find out more.