DD probable autism and confirmed genetic disorder - mainstream school?

[SpudleyLass]

Hello!

I'm really struggling at the moment and I know how brilliant this board is for advice on this subject.

My daughter (almost 4) has been under SALT since Oct 2020 - all professionals involved believe she is ASD and she has also had microarray testing which has revealed a deletion on the TANC2 gene, associated with autistic features and intellectual disability.

For clarity, she has very few words hence the SALT.

She is a very charming little girl, though prone to aggression (is known to bite and pinch) when frustrated and can't communicate effectively - is also not potty trained as a result of these complexities.

Her preschool carers are absolutely fabulous and have been from the start. We've within the past 2 weeks received the draft copy of her EHCP, which we are happy with but we have just received the news that the LEA are wanting to send her to a mainstream school, as opposed to the specialist school we would like her to attend.

This is news I obtained through preschool as her caseworker did not inform me of this development.

I called said caseworker the following morning and she informed me that she would be going through the consultation period with the local schools - but I do not know how long this goes on for and what my next steps should be.

Has anybody else gone through this before?

All advice is greatly appreciated!

When you received the draft EHCP you should have got the opportunity to name your preferred school. Have you?

Unless wholly independent the LA should have named your preference unless the can prove:
-The setting is unsuitable for the age, ability, aptitude or special educational needs (“SEN”) of the child or young person; or
-The attendance of the child or young person would be incompatible with the provision of efficient education for others; or
-The attendance of the child or young person would be incompatible with the efficient use of resources.

The LA must finalise by week 20. What week are you on now? When the LA consult with schools the schools should respond within 15 days. Although if they don’t the LA cannot use that as an excuse for not finalising within the statutory timescales.

If the LA do finalise with a school you don’t want you can appeal.