What to look for in a school for you child.
 
Many parents are confused at what to look for or the right questions to ask when choosing a school, this is increased when a child has a disability or learning difficulties. Obviously every individual will have different requirements from the school but here are some top tip/ advice
Once you know which schools are near you, get as much information as you can about them. This will give you a better idea of which schools might suit your child most. For example, you might like to:
 
     
 

• Visit the schools and attend school open days
• Read the schools' most recent Ofsted reports and performance tables
• Read the local authority's and schools' prospectus
• Talk to other parents who have children there, their comments and opinions come from knowing about the school and could help you make informed decisions.
• Find out who is the SENCO. Talk to him/her and ask how they would adapt and cater for your child’s needs.
• Ask about the facilities and after school activities the school has to offer.
• How many other children have SEN, (if it’s a mainstream school)
• Make a short list and go back to have another look around the school this will often flag things up you missed the first time round, most schools will be happy for you to do this.
• Observe how the teachers and pupils interact.
• Make lots of notes and don’t be afraid to ask question, if you’re not sure you understand something ask them again.
• Take your child’s views into consideration if they are not going to be happy at the school then no amount of good teaching will allow your child to thrive and learn well.
• Having said all that, parents have good gut feelings and this should never be ignored.