I am writing to seek advice and support regarding my son’s secondary school placement and the ongoing difficulties we are experiencing in securing an appropriate school placement through his EHCP provision.
My son is autistic and has a Level 4 EHCP with SEN school provision identified within his plan due to the complexity of his needs. Despite this, several schools approached regarding placement have declined to offer him a place.
As a result, his case was previously presented to the Complex Panel to request approval for an independent specialist placement. Unfortunately, this request was declined. We have now been informed that his case will be returning to the Complex Panel for a second request for independent placement consideration.
Given the repeated school rejections and the difficulties identifying a setting able to meet his needs, I would be grateful for advice on the following:
- What further evidence or information may strengthen the case for an independent specialist placement.
- Whether the multiple school refusals support the position that suitable local provision is unavailable.
- What rights we have if the second Complex Panel request is also refused.
- Whether there are additional steps, advocacy services, or support we should be accessing.
I am becoming increasingly concerned that an appropriate secondary school placement is not being secured and that my son may not receive the provision identified as necessary within his EHCP.
I would greatly appreciate any advice or guidance you can provide.
