Considering home education for my 9 year old with ADHD

[ItsStillWork]

I’m seriously considering home schooling my 9 year old who has ADHD and suspected Autism.

He has an EHCP but is struggling with the demands of school, lots of anxiety, biting and ripping clothing and bedding etc.

I don’t have any pass GCSEs myself so I’m worried about my capabilities to give him the curriculum.

ive tried to get him into a SEN school but it’s a very long process and school are currently saying they’re meeting need when I feel they’re not. He’s been forced to participate in activities that stress him out resulting in him crying and becoming disregulated at school.

its very difficult to get him to do homework, but I’m not sure if that’s because he’s been at school all day and he’s had enough.

im just worried about what happens when he comes to GCSE level etc

You know your child better than anyone, and your understanding of his needs is a powerful strength. The right support and learning environment can make a huge difference in helping him thrive.

Personally, I wouldn’t EHE. An EHCP can provide far more support, including therapies, than the vast majority of parents can afford to fund themselves.

When did DS last have an EP assessment? What about SALT and OT assessments? Has he ever had a CP assessment?

What support is already in F and is it being provided? What has the school already tried? Does DS have any adjustments to homework at the moment?

I would request an early review of the EHCP.

You can pursue a change of placement even if the school is claiming to be able to meet needs.

GCSE is a LONG way away! You don't have to figure that out now. The main thing is to meet your child's needs in this moment. There's no point in leaving him in school to suffer for another five years just because you might later decide that you can't home educate him through GCSEs in future.

Home education does not have to be a permanent decision. If it's what your son needs now, do it for now. You could look to return him to school by the start of Y10 if you feel that is the best place for him to do GCSEs.

In fact I think it's quite likely that by that time, you would feel more confident about it all and would actually find a way to home educate through GCSEs. Many people do, including parents who don't have high academic attainment themselves. There are lots of resources available, you can learn alongside your child, and you might be able to pay for some tutoring also. But that is a decision for the future.

All you really need to know is what you are going to do right now, this year. School will always be available later if you want.