high functioning ASD independent schools advice

[bagmonster]

Hi can anyone help. Ds was recently diagnosed with ASD in december and is currently in a mainstream school. Though SENCO involved i feel he may start to fall behind as there are no permanent LSA's which he would really benefit from. Was recently denied statement as he is reaching his goals at present but does struggle in a big class. Have been told he is a bright boy and want to ensure he reaches his potential. Currently thinking about looking for an independent school as feel he will benefit from smaller classes and more LSA's. Has anyone else been though this process with success as don't want to move him to then have him excluded if they are unable to cope. We are in the essex area - does anyone know of a good school?

How old is your DS?.

How recently were you denied the Statement (and who applied for it)?. If it was within the last couple of months you can and should appeal their crass decision. Statements are there to address social and communication needs as well.

Some independent schools may be very selective in their criteria and could well deny your son entry. I would go all out to obtain a statement then you can name the school.

I have heard that if you need a LSA in the independent sector they charge you extra for it! So do your research very carefully.

Doucecroft in Colchester is ASD specific independent school. Think they have the full range but am not sure about how high functioning some of their kids are. Might be worth a look.

Can I suggest getting your free copy of SEN magazine
www.senmagazine.co.uk/

Apart from being a very good magazine (I work in SpecialEd so get it delivered to school), it has a large number of independent specialist schools advertised in it, including lots for Aspergers/high functioning ASD.

Well worth a look (and some great articles too)
Some of the schools ate LEA referred but many are simply independent. I know if I could afford it I would have my own son at one in a shot!

You'd have to fund it privately.

Without a Statement you have absolutely no chance of the LEA funding it.

Even with a Statement you'd have to prove that the LEA had no provision at all that could meet his needs.

I'd concentrate on getting what you can for him via State system.

In the first instance that means appealing their decision not to assess for a Statement.