DS is having a terrible time at school. He is currently going part-time (this was our suggestion at the beginning of last year). The school have pre-diagnosed him with ASD (i.e. no official diagnosis yet), and he does get funding for 15 hours/week 1:1. (This is pre-statement funding that is specific to our LA where children have been identified by the school as having social communication difficulties). However, they seem unable to keep him in the classroom, or really allow him to associate with any other children when he is in school because of his behaviour. He is 6, but the staff seem constantly on edge around him.
He has been referred for assessment, but the initial assessor seems to have left the services of the borough under a cloud, and the clinical psychologist to whom he referred us doesn't want to see him as he has no problems at home. We are paying for OT.
Before joining reception he went to a pre-school for 2 years where, although they thought he had some sensory diffciulties and possibly dyslexia, he was able to take part in all activities and produce the same work as other children. I certainly never had reports of aggression towards other children.
At home, he is sensory seeking, sometimes a bit frustrating, sometimes isn't great at listening and is certainly somebody who beats to the tune of their own drum. However, he is not a difficult child. Most of the time he is a joy to be with.
Generally out bursts at school seem to be a complete surprise to the teacher. "It came out of no where!" I know that at home, if DS is unusually upset, there is always, always a reason.
Anyway, we have decided to move to a different area and have found a school that we think will be suitable. DS could probably start after Christmas.
Is there any downside to me just taking DS out of school tomorrow? I am studying at home and have exams next month, but really feel that I can't bare to be told yet again "He seemed to come into school unhappy - well grumpy is kind of normal for him anyway isn't it? He needs to understand how to behave in the classroom. Do you think you could explain to him blah de blah de blah".
The school agree that they can't cope with him, but is there any advantage to waiting for them to formalise this?