Where does DS stand legally?

[JessieOh]

Ds is about to complete year 12 in sixth form. For a variety of reasons he has struggled and we are coming to the conclusion that he would do better by leaving and going to college in September. We have booked to have a look around the college in an open evening.

His mental health is being impacted but not at the point of needing to see a professional and I don't think it would be obvious to teachers. But something needs to change to prevent it getting to that point.

If, after attending the college open evening he decides it is right for him, where does he stand legally with attending 6th form for the rest of this term?
Obviously we would let school know, but is it as simple as saying "DS won't be in, he's starting college in Sept" or will we have attendance officers checking up on him? What is the process and what should we expect?

To be honest she’s passed the stage your son is at.
I would just let him drop out - schools have done their reports anyway - it only details they attended and got x - no need for a true report as it won’t go on any job application anyway. Gap year if necessary.

Think hard.

If your DC has mental issues, then he may struggle in a new environment full of strangers where students are not spoon fed but expected to be more independent. Because they are older, not obliged to attend, and theoretically better motivated .

The only legal requirement is that he must be in education or training, but this is largely unenforced. You will not have any problems if you tell the school what is happening and he takes a break before starting college in September.

My friend's daughter also dropped out in THE with no legal consequences.

If he is well enough, is it worth trying to get him on roll in the college this term? Once A levels are done it'll be quiet and teachers' workloads will be less.

THE = Y12