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ASD DS. Returning to UK. First port of call re schooling?

WanderingTrolley

Hello.

DS (almost 13) and I have been living abroad for 18 months, but wanting to return to the UK.

DS used to be in a special school before we moved and their recommendation was that, if he were to stay in the UK, that he attend a mainstream school, with support.

So, he's been in a mainstream (English-speaking) school since we moved, but we've struggled to find extra support/assistance available (in this non-English-speaking part of the world).

Just wondering where to start with it all. I mean, if we apply to schools directly explaining the situation, would they assess his needs if he were to get a place? Or, is it possible somehow to get a private (unbiased) diagnosis? Or, do I contact the LEA first?

Hoping someone can show me a little light.

Many thanks in advance for any reponses.

  • it's tough because you don't know the profile of the children in both settings.  things are getting tighter all the time and I think if you ask the LEA they will push for the cheaper option - the mainstream with support. If you have the time I would get the list of the schools from the LEA and try to find out - from the autism society, from other parents of the schools and check if there are spaces.  If you can have a look and see if you feel if your son would fit in with the profile of the other children and how if it's mainstream they would include your son.  I know you can get private ed psychs but are expensive and at the end of the day you know your son more than anyone.  Good luck

     

  • Hello Wandering Trolley,

    For questions regarding finding suitable schooling and the processes involved you might want to try contacting the Education Rights Service:

    http://www.autism.org.uk/Our-services/Advice-and-information-services/Education-rights-service.aspx

    Has your son had a diagnosis of any kind yet or are you seeking information about that too? Here is some information about diagnosis:

    http://www.autism.org.uk/about-autism/all-about-diagnosis.aspx

    You'll also see how to contact the Autism Helpline on that page which may be helpful given your particular circumstances.

    Good luck with it and perhaps someone else who has been through this will be able to share their experiences too.

    Sandra- mod