Having successfully got funding for DD with MLD to residential college :o, I want to share some key points to maximise chances.
- Start looking 2 yrs prior to start, best colleges have long waiting lists.
- FT education in local colleges post 18 is often 16 hrs pw! What would you do with the rest of the time? Valuable skills could get lost. You may have to stay at home to look after your SEN young adult.
- Once in local college, chances of getting funding for residential is minimal. They don't tell you this! Do residential first local later if needed.
- Do your homework - visit every SEN college which may be suitable, local as well as further away. Take notes.
- Get current school and connexions advisor on board. This may be difficult but don't accept that local college is right if you don't think it is.
- Consider what your SEN DD or DS is good at or enjoy, their level of needs, match college to this.
- Make sure that statement is kept up to date whilst at school.
- Make sure you are in receipt of DLA.
- Collect evidence why residential college is needed, get letters from professionals, RDA or any other club attended.
- Write a list of all criteria and assess each college against this. Be factual. List pros and cons of each college. Attach as appendix to application.
- You have to prove that a local college cannot meet the needs of your SEN DD or DS!
Finally, be prepared for a fight and a second round with the LEA. We were lucky but other friends less so. Best thing we have ever done. DD is happy and gaining independence daily.