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4 year old starting school

George's mum

I would appreciate any advice from parents regarding choosing between mainstream and special schools for children on the  autism spectrum.

My son currently goes to nursery 3 days a week where they are very understanding of his communication problems (he does'nt speak at all). He starts school in September and we have had no guidence from the Council regarding this transision and seem to have to find a suitable school ourselves.

What are your experiences of mainstream and special schools?

  • Hello

    Preschool and nurseries can be a daunting experience due to their large size and busy atmosphere. This can be a little too much for a child who has special needs.

    I would suggest researching a local childminders or smaller nursery that can prove experience in caring for special needs.

    Best of luck

    Enfield Childminder

  • I would recommend contacting and visiting the schools in your area, including the local special school to form an opinion.  As you know your child best and what his needs are.

    At the main stream schools, I would be asking how much experience they had with Autism and what support they can offer and at the special school, you will need to understand what the entry requirements are.  For example, our local special school only accepts children with autism if they have anEHCP plan already in place.

    My LO was diagnosed at the pre school of the school she now attends.  The pre school teacher had significant special needs experience and so I had no qualms sending my daughter to the school.  But in reception it was quite quickly obvious that the school had little to no experience and whilst she loves it, the school are pressurising us to move her to a special school.  My friend also has a son with Autism ain reception and his school have given him a final written warning, with the next step expulsion.