What do I do?

[Bigblueskiesss]

Hi everyone,

this is all very new to me so apologies - I’m hoping some experienced SEN parents can help me.

is there a point seeking a private diagnosis? For a “high functioning” autistic child? Do the school do anything different once you have a diagnosis, or is it best to wait for an NHS one?

For context my child is 5, achieving well but doesn’t have much interest in making friends and is a very anxious being in general (and ofc we feel the effects at home, not at school) therefor the school are a bit like “well they seem fine so” when actually, we’re feeling the brunt of their emotional burn out. My Child’s teacher has said they see autistic traits.

I have tried to meet with the SEN team but they are asking for me to wait until next term? That’s just to meet and chat with them. personally I’d like to get the ball rolling so that my child can have appropriate support for year 1 because there’s much less play/more structure beyond reception.

delaying won’t change my child’s needs, I fear it’s just giving them time to “conform” and mask. What do I do? Do I go private or do I just have to wait for everyone to pull their finger out? I’m so confused

There’s 2 issues - 1) diagnosis and 2) support in school.

The majority of support in schools is based on needs rather than diagnosis. There are a couple of exceptions, such as some autism specialist schools and some specialist teaching services in some LAs.

The school should be providing support even without a diagnosis. If the SENCO won’t meet you until next term, speak to the Headteacher. If the class teacher has noticed signs, what support are they providing? If you think an EHCP is needed, you can request an EHCNA yourself.

The school can’t lawfully refuse to accept a private assessment just because it is private. The validity of any assessment and potential diagnosis is less likely to be questioned if you use a provider who follows NICE guidelines &/or works/ed for the NHS. You could always look at right to choose.

Thank you so so much, this is incredibly helpful. So needs can still be met without an official diagnosis? This is very interesting

Yes, the vast majority of support is based on needs, not diagnosis. The school has a duty under section 66 of the Children and Families Act 2014 to make their best endeavours to meet DD’s SEN, diagnosis or not. They must also make reasonable adjustments as per the Equality Act.