autism units in secondary Glasgow moving from England

[Neshka]

Hi
We are planning to move to Glasgow next year (not sure about the area yet, South probably because of work). My now 9 year old son (10 in July) has autism (moderate to high functioning-depending on a day), ADHD, dyslexia. He currently attends a unit attached to a mainstream school in England. He has EHCP- a legal document listing his needs (equivalent of CSP?? not sure?). Where we currently live special needs children get first choice of school (that can meet needs) plus transport to school (unable to travel by themselves). Would it be similar in Scotland? I am struggling to find info on what secondary schools have similar setting in Glasgow (Hillpark?). He needs extra support but still enjoys learning subjects taught in a mainstream setting. Anyone who has children on the spectrum attending secondary school in Glasgow? It needs to be a unit where children learn (not just a place to relax if having a meltdown). Many thanks!

I have a friend whose autistic son was moved to Autistic Unit at one of the primary schools (as his primary school wasn't coping with him) and then went to Hillpark.

If your ds is high functioning, then he needs Hillpark and definitely not Govan High which has the other Autistic Unit. My friend said that the one in Govan was just a case of baby sitting/containing the kids until they were old enough to leave school - so not a place where they are expected to take exams (as friend's ds has done at Hillpark).

Her ds got transport to Hillpark (although whether it always turned up was another issue - the taxi company was not always reliable ).

To be fair on other schools, I know kids who are on the spectrum who get good support at other schools like Shawlands Academy and Holyrood Secondary. (I'm involved with the local rugby club, which does a lot of work with/seems to be good for kids on the spectrum). What they perhaps lack is a formal "base" for them to go if they need quiet time.

Without meaning to worry you, you must contact the council asap.

When is your DS’ birthday? I think he will start P7 in August 2020 so you are looking for a primary school first of all. If he is moderate to highly functioning it will be expected for him to be in mainstream primary.

Good point Corgis - I'd missed the bit about age. Y7 = P7 (people often think it equals S1)

The good news is that the OP's ds will go from being one of the youngest in his year to being one of the oldest - plus an extra year at primary school to acclimatise.

As far as I know Hillpark has a good reputation, people say the Head is very good. Have you looked into what East Renfrewshire and other council areas surrounding Glasgow have?

We have friends who stayed in Newlands (in Glasgow) & their son went to a special school in Barrhead (East Ren) as that was deemed most suitable - it seemed to be a mix of special & usual. I think it was called Carlibar - might be worth checking out.