The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Families with autistic children are battling to ensure a specialist school in South Holland remains unchanged.
MP John Hayes is “shoulder-to-shoulder” with a group of campaigners urging the county council to leave Gosberton House School for pupils who are on the autistic spectrum.
The county is currently consulting on plans to make all special schools accept pupils with a range of needs, rather than a specific issue.
But it is a change which could cause real problems for children with autism, say families.
“It just will not work because children with autism need specialist help, which is exactly what they get at Gosberton House,” said Jo Bailey, grandmother of Peter (11) who is autistic.
“I don’t think this has been thought through. The children with autism may have a range of sensory needs and Gosberton House caters for them.
It is a really popular school,” said Mrs Bailey.
Mr Hayes said he was a “staunch defender” of children with special needs and he met with a group of parents earlier this week.
“They feel it’s already a fait accompli and the decision has been made.
“The needs of the child must come first and Gosberton House School has a deserved reputation and I am standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the parents,” he said.
There is due to be a consultation meeting on Friday in Spalding and Mr Hayes is planning to attend with the parents.
“Gosberton House turns away around 30 families a term and we need more special places for children with the condition, not less,” said another parent, who declined to be named.
“It is the only school in Lincolnshire and one of only 33 in the country which is only for children who are autistic and it’s a valuable resource.
“The county council is spending £40m on special educational needs, but it will be wasted if it goes to the wrong thing,” she added.
The council is currently consulting on plans to reduce travelling time for pupils who have special needs by making their schools non-specific.
The county council said the move would also free-up school spaces.
The consultation process is due to end on March 14. There is an online survey on the county’s website at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk and comments emailed to SENDCommunities@lincolnshire.gov.uk
“No child will be forced to change school if parents don’t want them to,” said a statement. The consultation event is being held alongside the Lincolnshire Parent Carer Forum between 11am and 1pm on Friday at Tonic Health of Westlode Street in Spalding.
Lincolnshire County Council’s Children’s Services Manager, Sheridan Dodsworth, said: “Gosberton House School is currently consulting on proposed changes to their school and the local authority is pleased to be supporting them in this.
“No decisions have been made at this stage on the school and the overall SEND proposals for the county. That’s why we want to hear from parents, carers, children and all interested parties as your feedback is vital. So we’d encourage attending one of the consultation events and more importantly, don’t forget to complete the survey online at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/SENDcommunities
“Or you can email your comments to SENDCommunities@lincolnshire.gov.uk
“This review is about bringing accessible inclusive education in all communities, minimal travel, enhanced provision and increased number of school places. We want all children to be able to access high quality education and achieve their potential, as near to their family and local community as possible.”
