Duncombe school Hertford

[becca75]

I am considering sending my daughter to Duncombe school in Hertford, partly because I live locally. However, my husband's family has a history of dyslexia, so it is important that we find a school which is suitable for children with learning a difficulties. Apparently the new head is not happy with the cost of special needs pupils in school, and that at least one child has been told to leave.

It seems pretty extraordinary that a child who has previously been enrolled can be slung out just like that. Can anyone confirm this?

Hi there, my child attends the nursery at Duncombe and we are also thinking of whether to keep here at Ducombe for the reception or move to Heath Mount where she also has got a place ( which is a better school in my opinion). The new head started just recently and I am not sure what's going to change. Duncombe are running Open day tomorrow, so perhaps you can go and ask the question yourself. Head and the staff will be there to assist...

I know for sure that Heath Mount work with kids with dyslexia and have special tutors for them...

I know of a child with special needs who has been asked to leave Duncombe. Maybe it's the same child.

Disgusting behaviour from a school as far as I'm concerned.

Before you go playing guessing games, you may want to check the facts. Children with statements of SEN get free 1:1 support in state schools which is funded by the government. Independent schools get no such funding and so pupils with certain statements are more likely to benefit in terms of teacher time and resources from state education.

OP I would ask the school directly about their SEN policy.

Planning to send my son to a local prep school. He has been diagnosed with Aspergers. Not happy to read claim that Duncombe school head told pupils with learning difficulties to leave. If true this is disturbing, not to mention unethical. If true, this might be a legal matter. Would be grateful for any advice on best local private school for child with learning difficulties.

You could try St Joseph's In the Park just outside Hertford. I would thoroughly recommend it. Lovely friendly and truly inclusive school with very committed staff. We've had a fantastic experience there our children who have a mix of conditions.