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Secondary education

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Professional support for entering to a secondary school

30 replies

Esserik · 08/06/2025 11:24

Looking for professional support to help us engage with a private school for our dyslexic son
We are seeking advice or a professional service that could assist us in communicating with a private school in London. Our son, who is dyslexic, was recently assessed by an educational psychologist who strongly recommended this particular school as the most suitable environment for his learning and emotional development.
Initially, our son had been accepted into a local public school. However, following the psychologist's assessment, we were advised against enrolling him there. The setting was deemed too large and potentially overwhelming for his needs, and there’s a real risk he could fall behind academically and feel emotionally lost.
Unfortunately, the recommended private school has told us that their admissions for this year are now closed and they are unable to offer a place. We would like to explore if there is still any way to present our case more effectively — possibly with the help of a professional advocate or consultant who has experience with school admissions and special educational needs.
If anyone has been through a similar experience, or can recommend someone who might be able to support us during this transition, we would be truly grateful.

OP posts:
LIZS · 08/06/2025 12:08

Is he currently year 6? If so might be worth looking at prep schools who could ease the transition and apply for a year 9 place instead.

Esserik · 08/06/2025 12:05

Attictroll · 08/06/2025 11:31

Can you go on a waiting list. If the school is full the school is full and not an expert in send private education but “it’s your money they are after” as well as having kids who get good results and are good examples of the schools ethos. It’s obviously sad you didn’t get the report prior to admissions but y7 entry usually have wait lists in place and movement occurs. Can you find a better public ( I am assuming state) and get on waiting lists there.

Thank you very much for your clear and encouraging feedback.
I truly hope a place becomes available before September. 🤞🏾

OP posts:
Esserik · 08/06/2025 12:04

bluecurtains14 · 08/06/2025 11:25

Are you wanting him to start in September? Why so late applying?

Yes, my hope would be for him to start in September, to avoid too many changes for a child who has already faced many challenges in his learning journey.
Unfortunately, we are still quite new to the British school system and, despite extensive research, we have only now received a clear indication.
🙏

OP posts:
Attictroll · 08/06/2025 11:31

Can you go on a waiting list. If the school is full the school is full and not an expert in send private education but “it’s your money they are after” as well as having kids who get good results and are good examples of the schools ethos. It’s obviously sad you didn’t get the report prior to admissions but y7 entry usually have wait lists in place and movement occurs. Can you find a better public ( I am assuming state) and get on waiting lists there.

bluecurtains14 · 08/06/2025 11:25

Are you wanting him to start in September? Why so late applying?

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