Does the local authority have to provide alternative provision for part-time SEN pupils?

[Stressedoutmummyof3]

I'm sure there is already a thread about this but couldn't find it if there is.
DS is 5 with severe autism and as a result only attends school part time. I have heard the LA is supposed to provide him with alternative provision if he can't attend school full time. Is that true? If so how do you go about arranging it?

When did DS turn 5? If he turned 5 last year, he is now compulsory school age (CSA). If he turned 5 this year, he isn’t CSA until next year.

Under section 19 of the Education Act 1996, the LA has a duty to ensure CSA pupils unable to attend school full time still receive a suitable full-time education. You can request this from the LA. On IPSEA’s website, they have a model letter you can adapt.

Does DS have an EHCP?

Why is DS attending school part time? Is the school saying DS can only attending part-time? Or is it because DS can’t attend more?

He was 5 last year so is now CSA and he has an EHCP.
He can't cope with more hours at school, he'll have a meltdown either at school or home or both and usually end up being aggressive towards me.
As he can't cope with more hours at school I do wonder if he'd be able to cope with anything but then I'm not sure.

Request alternative provision.

You should also request an early review of the EHCP. Have you considered if the current placement is the right one?

Is there anything in F of the current EHCP that isn’t being provided because DS is only attending part-time? If so, the LA should still be ensuring he receives the provison in F.