Secondary Schools all unsuitable

[Peachyqueen]

I am so at a loss as to what to do, I'm hoping for some advice.

DS is 10 and has ASD & ADHD. Medicated, struggles with emotions. Is highly sensitive and hates change.

There are 4 schools nearby. 3 large mainstream, 1 small private. They have all said they cannot meet my DS'S needs. LA said because of this, they will place him in either our choice or the nearest school to him, and the funding given to them via his EHCP will then mean they can meet his needs.

I really don't know what to do. The 3 mainstreams are large, the one nearest to us has a terrible reputation, especially with SEN children; the other 2 we visited with DS & he hated them intensely.

How do I ensure my DS gets a good education without having to worry about him being bullied or scared/anxious? He is such a vulnerable child, I don't know how to proceed.

Are there no other schools? I’d personally look further afield! I’m sorry you’re going through this.

Also with the two he hated - what were your thoughts? I don’t know your son but his anxiety might make him be upset by the idea of any school. What does your primary suggest?Also do you have Facebook? Often the local Facebook groups are great for answering these questions including schools for nearby (but different) counties.

Have you looked at all schools within travelling distance (normally considered 1hr15 for secondary, although many travel further), including out of area and all independent schools?

Even though the schools have said they can’t meet DS’s needs, what do you think? Is the private school wholly independent or a section 41 independent?

Unless your preferred school is wholly independent, the LA must name your preferred placement unless the LA 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.
Unless the LA can prove the above, they can and must name the school even if the school object.

If it is inappropriate for the provision to be made in a school, there is EOTAS.