To ask your thoughts on mainstream vs specialist secondary provision?

[SchoolHelp20]

DS10 with a diagnosis of ASD and mutism.
EHCP under way.

Social communication issues, organisational and sensory issues, strong responses to change in routine. Masks in school but explosive daily meltdowns at home. Severe anxiety .
No learning disabilities.

Currently undergoing SALT . He has a history of school refusal.

He’s due to move to the same secondary as his older brother in September but I’m wobbling . Would he suit the criteria for specialist provision?

WWYD?

I think I would want specialist provision for my child if possible ( I also think it is telling that you appear to be thinking that way and I believe parents have the best insight into the support their children may need) .

Should have said " most parents" and Support for e.g.their social needs ( eg a medically trained personnel for instance I would expect to know the best support for their medical needs).

Had experience of all types with my 3 and it depends on each child. ASD centres within mainstream/specialist Independant and Local Authority MLD. All different.

Where a child can manage/just get by in primary, if you are seeing an escalation in need, I would think very carefully about mainstream secondary. There are some great schools so it really depends what your local would offer in terms of support and reasonable adjustment. Unfortunately a lot have limits and restrictions that just don't include the support, flexibility and specialist input specialist provides.

With an EHCP you still have parental choice
for naming schools. I would speak with your SENCO and any other supporting professionals. Not all SEN children with an EHCP have a learning disability, this explains it well.

childlawadvice.org.uk/information-pages/special-educational-needs/

Speak with your local SEND IASS team which will listed in your borough's Local Offer. They should be able to give more advice on your rights and options.

Good luck.