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

Good luck with this!

I agree would benefit many

We need this school, my son is high functioning and cannot cope in mainstream school.

Very valid point Hal. Thanks My son is very clever and I feel he could really make something of himself...but only if he is properly supported throughout the rest of his education!

As there is such a thin line between genius and autistic, this could benefit society at large by nurturing talent as well as helping the indivuals and their immediate family.

Would be a very valuable resource for Devon/Plymouth, who knows what will be the needs of my toddlers in the future but I would be very glad of it being there if needed and I also know of a friend whose child it may well benefit.

I have worked with high functioning autistic children in mainstream schools for nearly 10 years. Sadly the lack of understanding these children face on a daily basis from many adults who make decisions about them can at times be astounding and frustrating. Even where there is some understanding hands are often tied. Why should we care? Firstly because these children, whilst each being individuals distinct from one another as all children are, often share one common problem.... DISTRESS. Distress caused by being in an unsuitable environment that does not meet their needs. Secondly, these children often do not meet their full potential in mainstream. Many of these children have very special qualities that do not get a chance to flourish through being in the wrong environment and so society as a whole misses out on their potential. I am a believer in encouraging all children to survive and do well in society with the best tools available to them. Nothing is more important than any society recognising that all our children are tomorrow's adults as the previous generation ages and steps back for them to move us all forward. We should think long term. I could say so much more but my last point will be this. Watching the horrendous fight parents of autistic children go through to get one of a handful of reasonably appropriate places within our education system is painful... and embarrassing. Embarrassing that our education system is so lacking. Remember, the vast majority of parents only get to realize this as their child grows from a baby and is 'different'. Many wonder what they've done wrong. Often they go through incredibly tough times both as families and out in society fighting not to see their child suffering in the wrong environment. However with the right support this can be turned around as they see their child helped to be the most wonderful special individual bringing laughter, insight and many amazing surprises as they flourish. I have been priviledged to see