How did you know that specialist schooling is needed?

[BKCRMP]

DD is 5 and her EHCNA caseworker and social worker are all suggesting I look at specialist schools. I'm so conflicted. How do you know what decision to make?

Im my authority, there are FAR fewer places in specialist provision, than families that need them. So, where I work, if it is ever suggested as a possibility, then it would seem sensible to go and have a look.

Even before places got so sparse, I would advise that parents go and actually have a look at the special school, or special schools that might be a possibility, and go and also go and look at the mainstream possibilities before making any decision.
All special schools aren't the same.
All mainstreams schools aren't the same.
All Resource Bases aren't the same.
All Local Authorities aren't the same.

Ask the staff at the specialist provision what they think their pupils get there, that they don't get, or is different from similar pupils in their local mainstreams. Then ask the local mainstreams how they meet the specific needs that your dc has. Think about times outside the classroom/ ordinary lessons. What happens at play time / lunchtime / when the class go on a trip. What training will the member of staff supporting your child (if there is a specific member of staff) have ? Which might lead to what happens when they aren't there - their own illness, or just when they have their lunch break or whatever.

Depending on what your child's needs are (physical / sensory / communication / cognition / global)..... there will be more specific questions.
But don't make a decision without finding out what you are deciding between.

I knew because the school he was at told me!! 😓

There was never any possibility that our son would cope within mainstream, or even mainstream-with-unit, schooling. His learning disability is far too great.

I think her school is at the point sept-dec is make or break point. Her social worker is saying it's too traumatic but I just can't see any viable alternatives locally :(

BackforGood reply is really very good.
I 'knew' because my sons placement failed horribly. Then they made him try another mainstream which failed horribly. Then when we had a look at a special school it looked much better and had to fight for it. I wish we could have carefully transitioned to the special school rather watch two placements fail because the trauma of being failed is lasting.