LA's rights

[benito]

am considering home educating my son who has just received a finalised statement. His school have made it clear that they are reluctant to provide for him (and in fact tried to avoid being namded) and I would like to HE while sorting out an alternative.

Do you know what effect this has on his statement?

I have been told by the Education Officer that the Authority has a duty to satisfy itself that what is offered is a suitable education for the child's age, ability and aptitude. They say that the EWS will get involved but they will respect my choice; it's simply about ensuring my child is safe and provided for.

Can you tell me what rights they have to involve themselves?

I think you'll find that the laws states it's: 'The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable to his age, ability and aptitude, and to any special educational needs he may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise? (home ed?s covered by otherwise)

Someone better than me will be along, but basically the LA?s legal duty is to identify children not receiving an education, and that means the right to satisfy themselves that?s not you and yours. Not at all the same as the above.

If your current school?s named on part 4 and you?re saying it?s unsuitable, but h/e is purely whilst sorting out a more suitable placement, then your best bet?s probably to go to appeal over part 4, otherwise you may find yourself deemed to have chosen to voluntarily leave state provision and let them of the hook.

You?re not required to fulfill his statement, it?s designed to provide for his needs in a school setting, but if it is well written you?re likely to be providing it and more.

IPSEA?s probably the best people for you to talk to. (please give them a donation if you?re able, they?re a struggling life line for many)