The school in my catchment area has a lot of children with high needs

[Shelia5]

School tours have opened for next years, year R starters.

I’m a bit stuck.

The school close to me has not had the best reputation. The previous ofsted report was poor and there was a lot of issues involving behaviour of the children and disruptions. The school now has new mangent and the updated ofsted report is rated good. I could see they really love the children and the teachers aee doing a lot to create routine and help resolve behaviour issues. I got the sense from what was being said that have quite a few children with tough backgrounds, but I can see they are really trying to help them and care. Children looked happy and teachers where smiling and saying hello.

One of the governors was there looking for her child, she said months ago the school was out of control, chaotic and families and teachers where leaving. She said she would have never thought of sending her child there if it had not changed. But as she is a governor she knows the school is going to be great and is doing great things.

Do I risk sending my child there when there is no consistent evidence. Or should I apply for a all rounder school 14 mins drive away.

Any advice or experiences on this?

I am following.I am in the same boat.😔

Your child only gets one go at this, choose the best school. It's nice that they are working to improve but it won't be instant.

Honestly, I'd go for all rounder.

There are very few things we can decide for our children, which are more important to their future, security and happiness, than the school we send them to. It is always a risk, and we can never fully know the outcome. But we should always make the decision that seems the best option, with the information before us.

It is impossible to know right now, which is a better choice. But if the only thing that is stopping you from choosing the other school is the distance, I would choose that in a heartbeat, and make it work despite the downsides of a slightly longer commute.