Good options for average student with "high functioning" ASD

[Waffleswithcheese]

Looking at options for Year 9 entry for my son, who has "high functioning" ASD. He is currently in a mainstream international school overseas and does OK without 1-1 support (although he has an Individual Learning Plan, and the SEN department at the school work with his teachers to make sure they have the right strategies in place to get the best out of him). Academically, he's broadly "average" - slightly better than average in maths / sciences (but not genius level), slightly below in English (comprehension exercises can be tough, as he thinks very literally) and not great at languages. He definitely benefits from smallish classes (currently 18) and time, patience and understanding from teachers.

We will move back to the UK in a couple of years time, and would ideally like a school where he could attend as a day pupil for Years 9-11, before switching to boarding for Sixth Form, when we're likely to move overseas again.

Definitely looking for a non-selective school which will support him to find his niche and maximise his potential, without being a hot-house / pressured environment. University might ultimately be an option, but not the be all and end all. He's relatively social, with a good group of friends, and likes a range of sports / outdoor activities (but not super high achieving at those). We'd like a school which is relatively down to earth.

Is there anywhere that might fit the bill?

Abbotsholme?

@sprigatito thanks. Just taken a look and that's certainly in the right ball park. Not the best location for us if we're looking at doing day school for a few years before boarding (preference broadly for south / south-west) but we could potentially make it work.

Millfield might be a good fit. Good SEN department, classes much smaller than 18 on average, and plenty of opportunities for sport / outdoor education at all levels

You should look at Bedales. It would work well for initial day/later boarding. And there is an excellent outdoor work department.

King's Bruton has an amazing reputation for being an inclusive and supportive school, as does Milton Abbey. These would be good options if you prefer a smaller school.

Millfield is also a standout school for SEN, but its sheer scale and emphasis on elite sport make it an acquired taste.

Sibford? Not pushy academically which may or may not suit.

Strongly recommend employing the services of a schools consultant. The Good Schools guide have specialists for SEN, both in UK and abroad. Save yourself the time & travel. They will call the schools, advise you about admissions (are there spaces available), organize school visits if you want. Schools will request a copy of the Ed Psych report. I know a family who used them for 2 relocations, one Europe and one Asia w large family & one child on spectrum.

Warminster school?
Colleague’s son with high functioning ASD attends and is thriving.

Thank you for all these suggestions. Will start looking into them. I think fees at Millfield and Milton Abbey would be too much for us (they seem to be at the top end of the fee spectrum), but the other options would be fine.

@RazzlePuff I hadn't considered using a consultant, but will look into this - thanks.

Have recently come across this small educational consultancy which specialises in kids with learning differences - parkerhamilton.co.uk. Might be worth looking in to. You have given it plenty of time so am sure you will find something.

@Lookingatalovelyview thanks - will take a look.

I have a similar son with ASD - he has some very strong academic niche areas but is ‘average’ in others (esp maths and languages) and has thrived in a small prep with minor adaptations.
I know families with HFASD non-genius kids at the following schools - sorry only really know our regional offerings - I would look at smaller coed schools
Bloxham
Dean close
kingswood bath
warminster
shiplake

Hello,

It's great that you're considering options for your son's Year 9 entry. For a supportive and inclusive environment, you might explore schools that prioritize individualized learning and have a strong Special Educational Needs (SEN) department. One school that aligns with your criteria is [School Name]. They offer a non-selective, inclusive approach, and their focus on small class sizes, understanding teachers, and a variety of extracurricular activities might suit your son's needs. Additionally, they emphasize a well-rounded education without excessive pressure.

Considering online safety, it's essential to ensure that the chosen school provides robust online safety training for both students and staff. Schools often collaborate with platforms like National Online Safety, iHASCO, or Childnet International to implement effective online safety programs. Confirming the school's commitment to creating a safe digital environment can further contribute to your son's overall well-being.

Wishing you the best in finding the right fit for your son's educational journey.
Best regards,
[Your Name]

Take a look at Malvern , very caring school and they do the international bacalaureate

OP have you looked at ACS Cobham? International school which would provide some continuity for your son at a time when he will face lots of changes. There are a couple of sister schools too which you can probably see from their website but Cobham seems like the nicest IMO.
I don’t have children there but looked at it when we moved back from a stint abroad. I know a family and they’re v happy with it. I’m pretty sure they’re non-selective. Mixture of day and boarding, beautiful campus, lots of services and handholding when it comes to navigating the educational system especially because they cater to an international audience. I believe they support SEN and have smaller classrooms. It’s expensive but potentially you would get your money’s worth. Good luck!

Have a look at Bloxham - it seems to tick all your boxes.

Thanks for all these suggestions - will definitely do more research on them all.

@SchoolMama ACS Cobham very appealing in lots of ways (not least the continuity of an "international school" feel), but unfortunately the boarding fees are out of reach for us. I think IBDP (which our older son will do) is also probably a stretch too far for DS - he will almost certainly do better with fewer subjects (at A level) that he is interested in.

Wychwood in Oxford?
Excellent and very experienced in getting the best out of every pupil. Very diverse school academically.

@mybrainisfull thanks. Hadn't heard of it before - will take a look.

Have you looked at More House in Farnham?

@wondabar yes, I thought More House looked really interesting and possibly a good fit, but conscious that Year 9 places are very rare. I also got the impression it was more focused on dyslexia. But definitely want to go and take a look at it / investigate more.

Sidcot? I hear it's good from friends with dc there as day students

@Waffleswithcheese my DS with ASD was there and it is the most incredible school. Quite a few students entered in Y9. New students arrive throughout the year as MHS understands that sometimes there is a need to move a student there quickly rather than wait until September. Try to go and visit it if you can.

@wondabar good to know that More House will also take boys with ASD. Will definitely visit and try to get a feel for whether it would be right for DS.

Wells is pretty good for SEN and is a nice school with an emphasis on being kind