Difference between independent special school and state special school?

[Raz01]

Hi all, is there really a difference between an independent special school and a state special school? I am asking in terms of resources, facilities, staff, etc. I am a foreigner, so have no experience of schooling here. I have a 5 year old austistic son who is currently in an independent special school, but I am now thinking to move him to a state special school with EHCP.

Special schools are very individual so there isnt a set thing of staff ratios or particular facilities. State special schools tend to be very good, but have a very particular type of need in mind - which might be severe learning difficulties, or speach and language difficulties not asd. They have limited places too, but its very area dependent.
Did you have a school in mind

It really depends on the needs of your child ,my son goes to a state special school he has severe autism and learning disabilities, it's a brilliant school ,but if your child does not have significant learning disabilities ,then they wouldn't meet the criteria,my LEA also has autism hubs ,which cover a broader range of needs, but pupils are expected to transition into mainstream lessons ,which again might not meet the needs of some children
Specialist independent schools ,I believe are designed to meet the individual needs of children whose needs might be very specific.

Can I actually find out my son's specific learning difficulties at the age of 5 years? He has significant learning difficulties, no doubt about that. We have been told by the specialists (paediatricians, educational psychololigists, etc.) that he has a delay across all development areas and they can't assess him for a specific difficulty, such as dyspraxia, dyslexia at this age. Can I please ask who your local authority is?

Yes I'm in Bolton we have quite good provision really in Bolton well better than most
What i meant really about specific needs ,is that sometimes even with out learning disabilities in the mix ,some children can have several co morbidities which can make their needs very specific.

I have heard good things about the provisions in Bolton. We are in Surrey, close to London but haven't really found anything impressive.