To move schools to a smaller class

[Concernedconfusedworried]

I'm looking for some outside advice and opinions. DD has just turned 5 and is in Reception, she has processing issues - likely over processor according to SALT. She stated at a school rated Outstanding in September, Inclusion Manager seemed to be good and her teacher was firm but understanding with her.

A bit of a rocky start with finding it difficult to sit, shouting out and being disruptive but that settled. However since returning to school her behaviour at home has massively deteriorated though not noticed at school - apart from her talking to herself in 3rd person. I'm concerned she is masking heavily there and exploding at home, including not wanting to go to school.

School is two form entry, 30 children per class, shared playground with juniors and there isn't much space - apparently at lunchtime she sticks with the dinner ladies.

My dilemma is that I have started working at another local school, much smaller classes due to be undersubscribed but amazing SENCO, staff are brilliant and I obviously now know a fair few of them and have seen their passion. School is recently rated Good but lacks the funding that the other school have so in terms of trips and in school extra curricula they are wolds apart.

I just can't shake the feeling that a smaller class might be easier on her and a less demanding environment might be easier - would I be mad to move her?

Think about how you would be able to advocate for DD when working in the same school. That isn’t always easy, especially if there is a disagreement about the child’s needs or the provision they require. For example, if you feel an EHCP is required, but the SENCO is adamant one isn’t required and DD won’t get one, will you still feel able to request one yourself and if the school gives the LA half the story will you feel able to raise that?

How small are the classes? If very small, the school may combine the classes in the near future which could see large classes again.

Smaller schools can sometimes be difficult socially, particularly for DC who struggle socially, anyway. What does your school do to support that?

Does the lack of funding mean they struggle to provide a wide range of SEN support?