London private school SEN support

[MEIL4]

Has anyone had experience with SEN support in private schools in London, specifically SPGS, NLCS, CLGS, Godolphin and Latymer, or Highgate? My daughter is academically very able and passed all the entrance exams of these school. She has mild ASD. I would love to hear insights on the pastoral care and SEN support available at these schools.

I've heard excellent things about CLSG, but that's not on your list . . . Well done on so many great options. I recommend having a frank chat with their SENCOs and other teachers about ASD now, ask if you can speak with other parents of girls with ASD, and ask how many with ASD are currently in the school. And most importantly, trust your instincs and when people come across as hesitant or unaware, beware!

I know someone whose DD didn’t have a good experience at SPGS. I don’t know how widespread that family’s experience is, though.

Have you talked to the SEN teams of these schools? My son might be having mild ASD, haven't confirmed yet because of the lack of appointments with NHS. We spoke with several schools about their SEN support. So far, Highgate stands out as particularly welcoming to neurodivergent children, without hesitation or concern. But their website also says they support as much as possible and if it's beyond their capabilities, they will ask parents to move their kids elsewhere. We had a talk with their SEN head and they seemed very supportive. CLS gave a warning that they can give extra arrangements during entrance exam, but don't expect it for GCSE. Had similar feeling with some other schools we went to. Better talk to SEN teams or parents and find what's more suitable for your DC. Please DM me if you want to talk more.

Thanks 11plusmommy. We are going to the offer day and will ask the questions. Thanks for the insight re: Highgate. They do seem like a welcoming school. If you are still waiting for NHS appointment, check with the NHS again. They may prioritise year 6 children because it is very helpful to get all contextualise input from the primary school before the child moves to secondary school. We didn't wait for as long as normal but we did get a private referral from a NHS children psychiatrist.