Recommendations for residential or specialist post-16 settings for autistic academic in right setting teen

[SaintApolline]

We are looking for a new setting for our 17 y old son, with EHCP & ASD diagnosis and 4 GCSEs (Maths 6, Science combined 66, French 7) to resit English (3) and carry on to further education. Can be Residential. Rejected consultation from Swalcliffe, as some history of violent outbursts at home only (never at school). Has anyone have any feedback on Cambian Wing in Bournemouth, Gretton in Cambridge and Alderwasley Hall School maybe ? Can anyone recommend other schools for cognitively able children who had a burn out in Mainstream (out of school since January 2026). We know we will have to go through Tribunal with the local authority.
Thank you so much!

It really depends on DS’s presentation, what type of further education courses he wants to do, and whether he can cope with some off-site provision or if he needs all the curriculum delivered on site. The latter is because post 16 some SS have arrangements with other local schools/colleges.

You could also look at Breckenbrough, Boveridge College, Unsted Park and West Kirby.

Depending on how DS's needs present, More House may admit.

Depending on how DS’s MH conditions present, West Heath may be suitable, and if you are around Devon, it is worth looking at Magdalen Court School depending on DS’s MH needs.

If you happen to be within travelling distance of Worcestershire, you could look at Chestnut place, but it isn’t residential.

If you happen to be within travelling distance of Sheffield, you could look at Kenwood Academy, but it isn’t residential.

Not all these will be suitable, it depends on DS’s needs.

Some find Gretton and Cambian Wing overwhelming.

Cambian schools have a mixed reputation and some parents are put off by that.

Thank you so much! That is very helpful and I will check the ones you listed.

Does anyone have any feedback on Cambian Wing College in Bournemouth? Residential for academic/ ASD 17 year old ?