Our review story

My son was given an education, health and care plan when he moved from primary to secondary school a few years ago. On our review it became obvious a mainstream school environment would be detrimental to his mental health, would be too overwhelming and would not meet his needs. 

He was placed in an amazing school that has really taken the time to understand his needs and adapt the environment so that his focus is less on sensory distractions around him and more on the learning in front of him. My son has come on leaps and bounds at his school and has made incredible progress as a result of this approach. While he still needs support, he is much more comfortable and confident. 

The school latches on to any of his interests and apply that to his learning where ever possible. They also allow him to chase down information that he finds interesting. My son has a keen interest in US Presidents and his knowledge of history surrounding them is phenomenal. The school give him the opportunity to chase his interests through every subject and keep him engaged.

The staff at his school likewise have read and understand his EHCP very well and are incredible assets. Every year when we have our reviews, I get together with key staff at the school and we talk about not only how he is doing, but what we think we could encourage him to do next and build that into the plan. We talk about what is realistic and I voice any concerns I have, but the plan is adapted every year to set out plans for him for the coming year. That being said if something is too challenging or too much for him, we zoom in and put steps in place to transition him into those plans more slowly. 

As a result of him finding a passion in American history we have had some lasting memories built while encouraging and perusing those interests. He is so engaged with and passionate about learning and it is amazing to see.