Experience with above-average intelligence autistic kid needing DSP (in London)

[Londonwriter]

Our DS (aged 6) is diagnosed autistic and currently going through the EHCP process. He’s currently at a mainstream state school, but is only able to be in the classroom about 50% of the time. He’s been given 1-to-1 support and the EHCP is for flexibility/formalisation/funding to support that.

The SENCO mentioned he might need DSP at secondary.

He is academically gifted (non-verbal intelligence at the 99.9th percentile measured by Potential Plus UK) and theoretically, with the right support, could get multiple A levels. Both his parents have PhDs and he appears as clever as we were (not trying to brag about him... just the facts).

Just wondered if anyone could recommend a DSP (or other provision) in London that might suit him? We’re in SE London, but are prepared to move around London as we know DS is statistically very unusual.

Be aware if you move LA the new LA will review the EHCP and potentially amend, reassess or even cease to maintain.

I wouldn’t spend too long looking at secondary ARPs now. Ones that exist now may not be open by the time you get to phase transfer or may be for a different area of need, new ones may open too. You could look at the Cullum centres in Surrey. If you are looking at SS you could look at Wemms and Unsted Park in Surrey and Holmewood in Barnet.

Personally, I would start looking at secondary provision options from Yr4. That will give you time to try and get your 'ducks in a row' if you find a setting that you think would be suitable.

Being cynical (or experienced depending on how you look at it!) I would also assume that you will have to appeal. When the time comes, you may need to look at commissioning up to date independent reports.

In terms of your DS's academic profile, I know of a DC who's at one of the UK's top performing grammar schools with an EHCP (he has ASD) so plenty is possible.

I would also say that my DS measured on the 95th percentile for non verbal reasoning but on the 6th percentile for processing/short term memory. A 'spikey' profile is very common for people on the spectrum. My DS is 13 and one of his teachers said he could get a 9 or a 1 at GCSE because he has so many barriers to learning when it comes to passing exams - so it can be a very complex picture with our children.