Hello all. I de-registered my high-functioning autistic son earlier this week from his mainstream primary school. He is 6 and has had a statement of autism since the age of four. He has struggled a great deal in school and has suffered a great deal of depression and anxiety. He had two one-to-one supports through the day which didn't appear to benefit him in any way - they used conflicting teaching methods which did not help my son. His behaviour has been getting worse after eight months of school. He has not benefitted from this experience.
So, after a great deal of thought, I have decided to home-educate him. The school have now contacted me and 'suggested' a 'Team Around the Family' meeting, if I would be interested? I'm a single parent and there are no issues with Social Services etc. Does anyone know anything about this meeting? Is it compulsary? I feel like I am being judged in way, as incapable of home-educating my son. He has been home-educated by me before, for six months last year in fact, after we moved and I was unable to find a school for him. Since my son has started school there has been little contact with professionals other than to update his ECHP. Why should people who don't know my son and who aren't currently involved with him be allowed to tell me how I should be bringing him up, when I know him better than anybody? Also, I feel that if I refuse this meeting, wil SS being knocking on my door? I am going to speak to the council soon about all of this but I wondered if anyone had any advice in the meantime, please?
Many thanks.