Hi All.
I was wondering if anyone had any advice or experience...
DS (almost 8) was registered from mainstream school in April. This was for a number of reasons, including bullying, stress and rising anxiety, and it just so happens that an amazing opportunity presented itself to us (to be part of a wonderful home ed collective with a view to becoming an independent international school one day)
Anyway, DS father and I have been separated for 6 years, and we managed to do a really good job of co-parenting, until he got a new girlfriend 3 years ago ish. I myself have also married since our split.
Once the girlfriend was on the scene, Ds dad completely distanced, did not want any involvement apart from contact times...not in any area of his life including education, despite numerous bouts of begging for him to be more involved on my part.
So, when I registered DS, his dad was totally aware (months before it happened) and showed no interest whatsoever.
Since this time DS has been thriving - both academically and socially. More importantly he is happy. (In this area of his life)
Meanwhile we have had many problems with the girlfriend. She is emotionally abusing DS and he is not coping well. I have tried everything and am getting nothing back from his dad. I pick up the pieces when DS breaks down, and only ever say positive things about his dad and the girlfriend, but it's not making much difference.
Anyway, fast forward to November last year and I have court papers on my doormat from DS dad.
He tool me to court for a contact order (he already has regular contact) and also a specific issue order to have him put back in mainstream school.
The first court hearing lasted 30 mins. DS dad has legal representation and I am only in a position to represent myself.
Cafcass were present and we had a meeting before court, and even after hearing what was going on with DS, they said they had no concerns and would have no further involvement. They said unless he was physically abused or there was drug abuse in the house, they could do nothing.
In the first hearing I agreed to the usual visit tomes that DS has had for years. 2 overnights a week. He hates it, and I hate having to force him, but was told that I had no choice so just agreed straight off. I would never with hold contact and I want them to have a wonderful relationship, I just want to sort the problems out so this can happen.
DS dad also asked for way more contact - even though he has refused any further contact on all previous occasions.
So now we are going for a final hearing. At least half a day.
I'm really scared that they will rip my boy out of a situation that he is thriving in, and put him back onto a system that made him miserable.
He is doing so well. I have so much evidence. The local LA even gave us a personal letter of recommendation saying we were doing an incredible job.
But his dad is stubborn, and unfortunately this is to spite me, and the fact I am questioning what is going on in his home.
I'm so sorry this has been such an epic essay.....
Has anyone been to court over Home Ed? Good or bad experiences, anything at all would be so much help.
Oh also he has PR. Which is obviously giving him a whole lotta power.
Help. 