Should I do everything to avoid fixed term exclusion (asd, year 4)?

[elsiemarleysellsthebarley]

Just that really. DS in year 4, diagnosed with asd last year and discharged from CYPS (our CAHMS). Until this year happy at school on the whole with meltdowns, sometimes violent at home. In the last month deteriorated at school, trying to run away then full panic mode when restrained by staff. Today threw something at another child and they are considering fixed term exclusion. We’ve been referred to social services early intervention already and hoping to get ball rolling with EHCP and some actual help!

More immediately do we fight the exclusion if they go ahead with it? I think we would have some grounds as it is due to his SEN. On the other hand he would benefit from time to reset and maybe it would make it more likely he’d get some help??? What are the long term consequences of a fixed term exclusion?
TIA

Don’t wait for school to apply for an EHCP, you can do it yourself ASAP. IPSEA have a model letter you can use.

I don’t think you will successfully challenge the FTE because the school will argue health and safety. A FTE won’t have a negative effect on DD’s future. FTE can provide you with evidence of unmet needs too.

If the school need more funding to provide support whilst going through the EHCP process they can apply for high needs top up funding.

Thank you, that’s really helpful. I’ll look into applying for the EHCP.