Is this good news? SEN panel update

[richmond44]

I would really appreciate some feedback on this as not sure if its good news or not. Yesterday I received an email from the SEN caseworker saying she wanted to update me on the SEN panel decision, that the draft statement has been agreed, that it would be sent to [the unit attached to the school she knows I want my son to go to] and that she would copy me in when she sends me the proposed statement. My son has just turned 4 with ASD and non verbal and would not be suited to mainstream hence I wanted an ASD unit attached to a mainstream school.

Initially I thought great, the statement has been agreed, its obviously for a unit as she is sending it there, but then I started to worry as not even seen the statement yet! However have to say that so far I have been (moderately) impressed with the way things have been dealt with.

What do you think? Had (another sleepless night last night!)

richmond

I agree. Just try not to think about it until you see it!

Good Lord don't waste energy worrying until you are sure you have something to worry about. I always have a glass of wine though before I open those envelopes however.

Thank you all - I think I have just read so many dreadful things on here and the way some kids are treated that I just expect the worst!

Except me, Justa

Seriously, richmond44, there are such things as sensible LAs. There are such things as sensible statements.

To be honest, with an ASD dx and being non-verbal, your DS is probably an 'easy case' for the LA, especially if you as the parent do not want a Mainstream education. The law is that the LA must try to place in MS unless the parent doesn't want it, or the placement would lead to the ineffective education of other children.

Try not to worry, and well done for coming this far - it's no mean feat.

Thanks Justa and Lougle - had not thought of it like that!

The draft statement came this morning - I have only had a quick glance (as working at home today) but it looks very comprehensive and thorough. Much longer than i expected in parts 2 and 3. Will be going over it this weekend with a fine tooth coomb!