Interesting podcast on ASD adolescents in m/s school

[appropriatelytrained]

Interview with Neil Humphrey (Manchester University, UK) on the mainstream vs. special education debate in autism

aut.sagepub.com/content/suppl/2011/08/22/1362361310387804.DC1

aut.sagepub.com/content/suppl/2011/08/22/1362361310387804.DC1

Off to have a look.

Ok, more of a listen than a look. As the chap said, pretty much what you'd expect. Teenagers with ASD in MS don't interact very well and are bullied and teased more than others. But some MS schools were better than others and the positive, local role models were useful.

It was a huge transition this Sept for my DS2 but with a statement, you can at least choose the best local option. Make sure they have support at breaks and lunchtimes and a good transition plan.

Thanks for posting the link properly Ellen.

I think the significance is that it is published evidence specifically on this point although it restates what we know to be true - inclusion stands or falls not just with the needs of the child but with the capacity and knowledge of the school.

It also looks at the experience from the child (rather than the school's perspective).

I think it is always useful to have a study to refer to where you can!

Oh yes, not dissing it. A lot of 'policy' seems to be ideologically based without any proper research to back it up. I've always been wary of inclusion when all it meant was specialists being completely diluted and the most vulnerable, needy children being taught by the least qualified members of staff. It can work, but it needs to be properly researched, training and resources provided and SS maintained for those DC for whom MS fails.

Looks like the guys planning more research along the same lines too so one to watch!

I absolutely agree on your summary of mainstream - you know what my experience of DS's last school was!

In the new school, the head has completely taken responsibility for the provision and organising DS's transition. He is responsive and understanding. It makes a world of difference to feel like you are not only working with someone as opposed to against them but that they understand.

We now call those who don't understand muggles in our house!!