Good schools for high functioning autism

[Localbod]

Hi, DS1(8) has high functioning autism, he is desperately unhappy in his current school and I have strong reservations as to whether it's best suited to him.

Has anyone any got recommendations for really good schools in Chelmsford that have a nurturing ethos?

Are you looking for state or private?

State, unfortunately private is out of our means.

Does he have an EHCP? Kelvedon school has an ASD unit.

Thanks. No EHCP, don't think we'd meet the criteria for one, but will investigate again.

We have just been invited back to see paediatrician as a follow up from ados, so hoping we can discuss support for him then.

I have found the Specialist ASD Teacher Team to be really helpful with school issues and to be a very child-centric service. Unfortunately I think the school has to ask (and pay) for their input if your child doesn't have an EHCP, but it's worth an ask and to see if the paediatrician can back up that need.

Thank you Frayedhem will definitely ask.

I'm further out from Chelmsford so I don't have any knowledge of the schools there. Unfortunately Essex has been a bit of a black-spot for DC with ASD who don't meet the criteria for Special Schools but aren't coping in Mainstream. Which is why they've opened up a few primary and secondary ASD bases.

I've been in the position of a child with ASD not being happy at school, and I would say the Head Teacher is pretty key. I had huge issues with DS1's first school and the HT really didn't want to know. I had a major issue again at the second school DS1's but this HT stepped in and sorted it. It's hard to know in advance as some will talk the talk, but I'd certainly be keeping an ear out.

Families in Focus can be a helpful advocate if you need some back up for school meetings/wanting to apply for DLA etc. BUT, they are not as impartial from the LA as they claim and have given me duff advice re the Ed Psych service. You can also call the Ed Psych advice line which is open every Monday in term time. If you have queries on an EHCP do talk to IPSEA or SOS!SEN or the SN boards on here.

I hope you're able to get some support and your DS is feeling happier at school soon.