Private secondary options for ASD/ADHD around Petersfield

[mizzlestick]

Hi, I just wondered if anyone had any advice.

We are waiting for an ADHD/ASD assessment for DD10. Although we have suspected for years that she may be neurodiverse, she has only really started to struggle in Year 6 in her mainstream primary. She is very anxious, and is worried about social interactions and “getting it right”. She is disorganised and messy, academic and spends most of her spare time reading.

Having thought that she would be going to the local secondary academy, we are now rethinking – there are around 1500 pupils there, and I feel she would not cope. So we are now looking into the private school options.

We live around the Petersfield area and I wondered if anyone had experience of a secondary that may suit my DD? We have booked visits at Ditcham Park, Frensham Heights and I am thinking of booking a visit at the Royal School in Haslemere.

We are looking for somewhere nurturing and caring, with structure, that will stretch and challenge her academically without putting too much pressure on her (if such a place exists!)

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Seaford in Petworth?

@Mary19

Seaford in Petworth?

Thank you! Yes, I think we will look at Seaford too, I have heard it's got a good reputation.

How about going the other way to Portsmouth? - Portsmouth Grammar School is only a short distance from Harbour station and so within 30-40 minutes of Petersfield by train. We know of several children who come from Petersfield.

Whilst is quite large in its entirety it has small classes and the tutors seem to work hard to ensure their tutees get their needs met; I know of two fellow parents with autistic/ neuro diverse children who are at the school and they seem to value the support they receive.

@hilsea

How about going the other way to Portsmouth? - Portsmouth Grammar School is only a short distance from Harbour station and so within 30-40 minutes of Petersfield by train. We know of several children who come from Petersfield.

Whilst is quite large in its entirety it has small classes and the tutors seem to work hard to ensure their tutees get their needs met; I know of two fellow parents with autistic/ neuro diverse children who are at the school and they seem to value the support they receive.

That's interesting to hear that about Portsmouth Grammar, especially the SEN support - I had briefly looked into it and was impressed by what I heard. I had thought it might be too far away but on second thoughts it might be worth another look. Thank you for the information!