Setting up a 'Free School' for high functioning children in Plymouth

It is about time there was a school dedicated for high functioning children, although the current education system has support centres in place there still seems to be a lack of understanding. Patents and their children should have the freedom of choice as to which school is right for them so they can integrate with society and be a part of their community and help them understand this confusing world.

Such a facility would mean so much to our autistic children and help them achieve their very best. I would say it is an essential item in the local education system.

This is clearly an area where this sort of specialist support is needed in Plymouth.

This school needs to be built.

We need this school so that our children receive the right support and style of teaching that enables them to achieve their true potential. Also, well said Tara Vassallo.

Specialist and/or integrative services for children with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC's) are woefully inadequate in this country and in many areas non-existent. What is available is often outdated or poorly executed, sometimes doing more harm than good, with lack of funds most commonly cited as the reason for the deficiencies. If the argument for lack of services is just about money, then it does not withstand scrutiny as the cost/benefit analysis has been done to death. Levels of investment in the early years, so our children go on to be independent, highly contributing, tax paying members of society, is miniscule compared to the enormous costs of providing lifelong state-funded support and care, if no proper investment is made during a child's formative years. Effective evidence based, early intervention and education are critical, if lifelong dependency and diminished outcomes are to be avoided. However we need the policy makers to be brave and have vision that goes beyond that of the next elective term.

I have a autistic child and its been so stressful trying to find the right secondary school for him for september as there r not enough special needs schools in Plymouth to many children and not enough spaces in the schools that have special provisions so many people I have been talking to this year have said a new school is need so good luck

As the mum of a 26 year old with AS and other diagnosis, an advocate and campaigner for families affected by autism for over 20 years in plymouth this is essential, my son received no education provision and was institutionally neglected by plymouth city council, they need to remedy and redress this for this lost generation also.

I strongly urge people to sign this petition, it is long over due.

Please sign this petition as it would be a massive help to children who are struggling.

This is a vital area that is needed urgently.

PLEASE make this happen my son is really stuggling!

A fantastic opportunity for children in need.

Wonderful. This is so needed.

This is a good idea and deserves full support.

Great idea and much needed

Super idea!

Such a good cause.

It's a very good idea

I couldn't agree more with your plans. The government's decision to close what used to be called 'special schools' and force children into mainstream education, without adjusting teacher training to encompass their needs was a huge mistake...one that the children are paying the price for! Good luck to you all.