Changing school in Y10

[sazale]

My DS left his mainstream secondary at the end of KS3 to study at a UTC as he wants to specialise in what they offer. He achieved well at his secondary school with a level 8a in maths and level 7a English at the end of KS3.

My son is not happy at the UTC. He reports he is regularly sat without work in lessons as he finishes the work quickly as it is too easy, several teachers have just left and more will be leaving shortly which has resulted in substitute teachers and there appears to be problems with disruptive behaviour. The UTC communication is dire.

We are not the only parents concerned about the situation and we have raised concerns several times and the promises the UTC made have not happened.

DS has gone from more or less 100% attendance throughout his schooling and never wanting a day off to asking to stay at home. There aren't any social issues and DS had made lots of friends who he also sees outside school. DS tells me that approx 4 students have returned to their previous secondary schools.

DS wants to return to his previous secondary school. I'm concerned about the impact this will have on him academically. Socially he will be fine as he's kept in touch with all his old friends.

I am also concerned about the impact on him if he was to stay at the UTC.

Most advice seems to be to avoid a move in y10. Has anyone else been in a similar situation?

We moved summer term of year 9, with no massive impact. Others have moved into the Year since, even two in January. I think you are cutting it fine, but it may be by staying, you're wasting even more time. Can you talk to the secondary and see what catch up would be necessary and if your dis is prepared to do that?

Thanks beachy. I've spoken at length with ds and he says he's committed to doing whatever he needs to catch up. Also going to arrange a tutor experienced in working with kids with dyslexia to help support him.

I spoke to someone at a private school who said that they will take new children up til the end of the Autumn term of year 10- after that it's too hard to catch up.

So it's possible - but I wouldn't hang about. And going from what you've said I would move him.

If you are going to move him do it now. I would accept someone into year 10 if they and their parents showed willing to work hard to catch up and their options fitted our blocks. I would be extremely reluctant to accept anyone into year 11.

Thanks everyone. Hopefully the fact he was doing well before he changed schools will make it easier to catch up.