fiorelli Report post Posted January 5, 2006 Had a couple of phonecalls from Louis's EOTAS unit over the last few days. They have FINALLY seen some of the behaviours he has displayed at school. When he was there before Christmas, they said he was a 'model pupil' and they 'didn't understand why he was with us'. He would do as he was asked, would interact with other children (to a degree), would be quiet and calm, he was doing school work, wasn't showing any disruptive behaviours, didn't seem to let anything phase him etc etc etc. NOW, they have seen him refusing to put pen to paper. Sitting there doing nothing. Refusing to cooperate. Not joining in with anything. Looking like 'a cat caught in car headlights'. Being scared, frightened, confused. Seen him not being able to communicate how he is feeling. They said they now understand a little of why he is with them, and what his old school were trying to tell them he was like. They have also said that if he gets his statement, [contrary to what the Ed Psych said about him having to go to a mainstream school while waiting for a special school placement] They WOULD NOT ALLOW THIS they have said they will keep him until a placement becomes available - UNLESS it is a mainstream school that has a specialist unit that will benefit Louis. They also asked whether I had any ideas as to where I would like him to go if he gets his statement. So I told them that there were 2. One I was not so sure of because of the distance, and I don't believe they will be able to help Louis with ALL areas of his difficulties (but would be able to do most). and the other one, which I believe covers everything, BUT is out of catchment. - every other time I have mentioned this school to other people, they have always been "Oh, it is very hard to get children in a school out of the area..." but the EOTAS unit were very positive, and were saying "If that is the right place, then we will do our best - go and see it, see what you think when you visit etc etc" Oh, and they are very good when it comes to snacks and drinks within the unit...They have always checked with me before doing something that the food/drink they are having is suitable for Louis. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
UltraMum Report post Posted January 5, 2006 That's really good news. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nellie Report post Posted January 5, 2006 fiorelli, This is brilliant news Just remember the final decision is down to the LEA. Make sure your evidence leaves them with no other choice but to name your choice of school on the statement. You have to prove that the mainstream school can't meet his needs and it looks as if you can do that. Good luck, keep us posted about the school visit. Nellie xx Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mossgrove Report post Posted January 5, 2006 It is a HUGE relief when you finally get to deal with someone who understands, and who is more concerned with your chld's welfare than money. I am glad things are looking up for you. Simon Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
phasmid Report post Posted January 5, 2006 That is good news, Fiorelli it sounds like EOTAS at last know what they, and you, are dealing with. That has got to be seen a positive step in the right direction. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
annie Report post Posted January 5, 2006 I'm so pleased for you . Apart from this forum, EOTAS were the first people to understand that the problems Alex had were real. Instead of treating Alex as though he was just a 'problem child' like school did, they understand and support him.........what a difference . Good luck with whatever placement you decide on. Annie XX Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DaisyProudfoot Report post Posted January 5, 2006 This is excellent news Hope everything continues to go well for you Daisy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
