Primary schools in Bromley with good SEN provision (especially for ADHD)

[DazedandConfused1234]

Ds(6) is showing signs of ADHD and has been for a while. We are aware that formal assessment probably will need to wait until he's 7, and we are trying to manage his behaviour in the meantime.

The problem is that he can be really quite challenging at school and sometimes even physical with other children. He is punished when he lashes out, but it doesn't seem to stop the behaviour. Also there is some evidence that other children have worked out he will do things they ask and they can then blame him for misbehaviour, which is muddying the waters a bit.

Anyway, I think he may need a new start, but only somewhere that is used to children that are challenging and can manage that while making sure the other kids are OK too. Does anyone have any recommendations for schools in Bromley with really strong SEN provision that we could look into, please?

I don’t have any recommendations, hopefully someone will be along soon with some ideas, but does DS have an EHCP? If so, you should request an early review. If not, you should request an EHCNA. Without an EHCP, you will be limited moving schools because of the infant class size limit.

Thanks @BlueBrick . He doesn't have an EHCP, and I don't think we are likely to get one for a while, especially if he can't be assessed until he's 7.

It does seem to be possible to move schools relatively easily round here. I think Bromley had a big baby boom 10/15 years ago, and the birth rate has dropped significantly since then, leaving primary schools with available places in the lower years. The problem is identifying which schools will be able to accept and cope with DS's more challenging behaviour, in an environment where he doesn't stand out as he does currently.

My sense is that his card is now marked with staff, parents and even some of the children, and he is known as being disruptive and explosive, and it may be hard for him to come back from that without a move.

Request an EHCNA now. EHCPs are based on needs, not diagnosis. You don’t need to (and shouldn’t) wait for an ADHD assessment.

I didn't realise that. Thanks @BlueBrick. I will look into that now!