No school for autistic ds8...

[Lpf]

As dibbers are from all over the country, if you know of somewhere that might be a good fit, please let me know as I think we’re going to have to move to find ds a school 😢

He’s 8 and recently diagnosed with autism. He’s also profoundly gifted with an exceptionally high IQ. Struggles with sensory, social and emotional areas which hinder his progress with learning and living. He is explosive and has been on fixed term exclusions from school regularly. He doesn’t attend at all now (since October) as they wouldn’t include him in the school and he had a mental breakdown really because he was so lonely and isolated and couldn’t understand why everything was going wrong.

He’s at home and not being educated at all and is desperate to go to school as he’s lonely and bored. We’re in Devon where options are limited but all schools have said no, they can’t meet his needs. Even austism schools. I’m devastated. They’ve made him out to be a monster and a leper that shouldn’t be around others.

It looks like we’ll have to move to where a school does want him. If any lovely dibbers know of an autism school for explosive but bright children, please let me know. Home ed is not possible or appropriate long term.

Signed, a sad, weary mummy of an even more sad 8yo who has never had a friend, a play date, anyone willing to spend time with him who now thinks there’s something wrong with him 😢😢

[vowels]

Poor baby. ❤

Maybe contact your MP?

[hideinpockets]

I’m really sorry to hear that. There are a few schools near me I know of, but one Mark College May fit well. I think your son is too young at the moment (it’s 10+) but may be worth speaking to them if you think it’s good.

It’s in Highbridge, Somerset so not far from Devon and I know they do weekly boarding if a move wasn’t a possibility.

priorychildrensservices... llege-somerset

[joanna23]

In Wales our half-term is next week. If you fancy a road trip I’ve got three children who would love to have a play date with you both!
It sounds like you’re really being let down by the system. Keep fighting to get what you deserve.

[alkel2730]

Gosh this is heartbreaking and so very wrong! Poor little one. Have you called the National Autistic Society for advice? They will be able to help I’m sure. Keep fighting for your beautiful boy.

[stink08]

Surly the education authority have a duty to provide his education, did he have one to one support at these schools? I presume senco are involved? Bless his heart, I hope you find somewhere suitable for him to go where he can make some friends and be accepted, and help him get the best out of his life x

[Vanillapod]

This is heartbreaking to read.
I am so sorry you’re feeling this way and that your son is being treated this way.
I don’t really have any advice but I would echo the comments above re contacting the national autistic society. Surely they can offer advice and support?
I have a friend in a similar position and know how upsetting and emotionally exhausting it is.

Would smaller classes benefit your son of would he be adverse to more interaction?

[duchy]

Forget the schools go direct to the LEA they have a legal obligation to provide suitable education. I'd also suggest you give MIND a call for advice too. M.P. Is also a great idea.

We were very fortunate with primary with not just support but more importantly the will to help. The first two years of secondary were awful but I eventually got him moved to a private school with very small classes and the difference in him was amazing.

There is support out there but you have to fight.

I do understand the exhaustion and frustration . Find your local parent's support group too , not just to get support from parents who have or are walking the same path but also to find out where their kids go and what is genuinely available ... some resources are just like a well kept secret.

Yes I too have walked this path !

[BevS97]

My friends son has started at breckenbrough.uk/ after a tough few years. He seems happier there. But it’s pretty far from Devon.

[Leanne1977]

Does your son have an EHCP in place?