Suitable school

[mothernetty]

Has anyone suggestions about a suitable School for my primary aged child who had classical autism. We live in the dudley borough. Need somewhere that knows how to work positively and productively with such children and who really know about autism.

I dont know the area personally.

How many schools have you visited? I think its better to get your own personal feelings about how schools can support your child. Are you thinking about mainstream or special school.

Have you spoken to Parent Partnership who might be able to guide you?

Thanks for that. I think I need to contact parent partnership. I would n't mind special or mainstream with a unit. However don't think the latter exists. Again perhaps parent partnership is the sensible next step,

I do think it's important to visit all the available schools. A pain in the neck to organise sometimes, but one school that we were told would be a good fit for DS2 was clearly NOT when we went there (even their HT agreed it would not be in DS2's best interests to be there when we talked to her). There's often a huge difference between what's on paper and the reality.

Plus when you request that he go to a specific SS, from what we've seen, the LA's first question is "have you looked at all the options/alternatives?" So it's good to have done that, so you can say "yes, they are not appropriate."

The SN Dept at your LA should be able to provide you with a comprehensive list of ALL schools in your area plus further afield (out of county). Then you NEED to visit all of them. I would take a copy of your Statement with you too, plus your DC if you feel that would be appropriate.

Thanks for the response. To visit every school would definately be a challenge. I suppose in our borough we have not even entertained the idea of a msinstream school, because D is seen to have a severe learning disability because of his autism. It just seems that SLD schools are often seen as the only option - and there's not much choice on that front. We have looked at a neighbouring borough who have said they basically have enough of their own. May consider contacting autism outreach who provide support in mainstream to really get an idea what is out there.

God I've just read my post again! I meant to say look at the schools with SLD/ASD units or Special Schools! Oh good grief!!

Obviously you would only be expected to visit those schools that are appropriate for your child's needs. But they will expect you to have done your homework. It was literally one of the first things brought up to us.

Brought back down to reality. One can always dream of mainstream schools being up to the task. Anyway, still trying to get as much info as possible, but choice seems quite limited. May have to seriously consider relocating if no joy.