14 - 19 education

[Emum]

I have heard that our local LEA is considering its educational provision for 14-19 year olds and is inviting representations. At the minute there is no ASD specific provision for this age group. Does anyone have any ideas about what kind of issues I should be asking them to consider when they make their decision please? My own child is still at primary age so I don't have a very good feel for this, but I have been asked to lobby on behalf of parents of older children.

 

Many thanks

[Kazzen161]

Having a room/Unit where they can go if they are overstressed or need support in resolving problems I would say is crucial. Plus a mentor who has good knowledge of ASD and the likely problems.

 

Help with organising and planning work, access to IT (pda's, laptops, voice recognition software).

 

Karen

[Nemesis]

I second everything Karen says and would add

- support moving between classes or being allowed to leave a little before everyone else to avoid crushes in corridors

- provision of non team sport options for PE/ games lessons

- need to be thinking about exam arrangements (including for oral exams)

- seating arrangements in class (many are sat alphabetically which really doesn't work)

- support/ monitoring of teamwork

- provision of a quiet space for break/ lunchtimes

 

Hope that helps,

Nemesis

[Kathryn]

I agree with all of this and would also add careful and appropriate preparation for adulthood: careers advice which takes proper account of pupils' particular strengths and weaknesses, and training in essential life skills. (transport, shopping, banking etc.)