ASD Post 16 Education

[mrshoho]

My dd 16 has an offer for a new sixth form starting in September. She was diagnosed with Autism relatively late, aged 15 and has had a difficult time at high school in regards to her social and mental health issues. On paper her ASD does not impact her on the academic side and she's on target to achieve so up till now no EHP was applied for. But she struggles with organisation, information overload, social anxiety and stress and I just want her to get off to the best start at her new college. They are aware of her ASD and I assume her current school will provide information but should we be asking for and EHP assessment? The guidance I have read states that an EHP will not be set up if there is only a health and social need. Would difficultly with organisation and following instructions qualify? As sixth form involves far more independent learning skills I worry she will struggle a great deal without support.

She has a transition taster day next week as up till now she has not even visited the school. This is not for parents to attend and I wonder should I contact the college with my concerns?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Don't assume the school will pass information on to the college, proactively contact them. I would do so before the transition day, if DD has a negative experience it could hamper her settling in September.

You (DD as she is 16) can apply for an EHCNA yourself if you think one is needed. IPSEA have a model letter you can use. The threshold for assessment is a) has or may have SEN, and b) may need SEN provision to be made via an EHCP.

Whilst you can't get an EHCP for healthcare or social care needs alone, the things you mention are educational needs. SEMH needs are a type of SEN. Educational needs are about much more than academics, social and emotional development are considered as is mental health.

Thank you for replying and you were right that the college had not received any details. I spoke to a very helpful SEN coordinator who advised that they were expecting her current school to pass the data to them on the taster day. She was happy to hear what I saw as areas she may struggle with and reassured me that they are equipped and experienced and that the college is an ideal environment for her. There will be an area she can go to at any time. They will support with orientation in the early days and support with organising work and deadlines. So I guess if this is in place and it works there will be no requirement for an ehp? Her confidence and mood are pretty low right now so will be working on that over the Summer. I'm banking on a new fresh start but also realistic at the prospect of such big changes ahead.

Brilliant! A supportive college makes a huge difference. They sound on the ball and willing to listen.

If DD's needs are being met by the normal resources available in college it's unlikely she would get an EHCP.