6 GCSEs?

[WobbleHop]

I’ve found the perfect school for by high functioning ASH/ADHD/Dyspraxic child, a small private school with a huge focus on SEN and mental health. Learning how to learn is their core value.

But, they only do 6 GCSEs

Maths, English, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, English Lit and ASDAN

Would this hold him back when he went on to do A-levels?

Have a look at the entry requirements at local sixth forms if you are worried.

It shouldn’t hold DS back and it shouldn’t limit most subject options even if DS has to show a portfolio instead e.g. if he wanted to do art. The exception might be language A levels where the sixth form may want a language GCSE.

If DS really wants to sit a different GCSE you could look at sitting it as a private candidate. If DS has an EHCP, tuition for another GCSE could also be included in there.

No ii is not likely to hold him back. But do check what the entry requirements are for the college he would like to go to.

Looking at the local college for a A-level equivalent course in a subject he likes, 5 GCSEs at 4-5, so that’s positive.

The other concern is that it’s a tiny school, about 40 age 8-16.

Emotionally it would be a great environment for him but does it matter it’s that small? He won’t make friends if he’s not emotionally regulated but if he is regulated he’s a lovely child.

If he’s regulated at school that will give him headspace for other activities out of school?

If he’s regulated at school that will give him headspace for other activities out of school?

DD has been in College for a year now and is a totally different person so I'd say probably yes.

She now has the headspace to work PT, go out socially with friends and she's even had a boyfriend. I would never have thought those possible when she was struggling through High School.

A small school has advantages and disadvantages. Same as a large school. I wouldn’t let it put you off if the school can meet DS’s needs. As you say, if DS’s needs are met at school, there are opportunities to meet a wider peer group outside of school.

If there's another subject that they are keen to do would doing it out of school be an option?

Six GCSEs and good mental health is far better than poor mental health and lots of GCSES (or more likely no GCSEs due to crash and burn). ds2 has only 5 GCSEs (maths, physics chemistry, english and geography) but did A levels and is now at university.