A.D.D child - is Crypt suitable?

[Stressed?Moi?]

It seems likely that my ds will shortly be diagnosed with A.D.D and being in Year 5 we are wondering which school will be the best for him. Does anyone have any experience of having a child (or knowing a child) at Crypt with A.D.D? Alternatively can anyone tell me what they are like in general for children with SEN's. He has his heart set on Tommies bless him but looking at their website, it looks like he would be tolerated, rather than nurtured. Crypt on the other hand looks to be more inclusive. Any thoughts would be welcome.

[DC17C]

Hi I've sent you a pm

[Stressed?Moi?]

Hi I've sent you a pm

Cheers - have responded.

[neveragain*]

I will send you a pm too x

[Stressed?Moi?]

I will send you a pm too x

Thanks neveragain, but it hasn't come through - lost in the ether I think.

[Mum66]

I would suggest you visit both schools - but not on Open Days. Arrange a visit on a normal school day. Ask to speak to key staff like the SENCO, Head of Year 7 and/or Headmaster (might have to request this in advance I guess). Then go with your gut feeling - websites are really useful, but there's nothing like seeing the school in action.

[Stressed?Moi?]

I would suggest you visit both schools - but not on Open Days. Arrange a visit on a normal school day. Ask to speak to key staff like the SENCO, Head of Year 7 and/or Headmaster (might have to request this in advance I guess). Then go with your gut feeling - websites are really useful, but there's nothing like seeing the school in action.

That's a really good suggestion, thanks.

[cazien]

A little bit off A.D.D. topic but when we visited both schools a few years ago we asked the question "if a DS is struggling with a subject are their procedures in place to assist his progress". Crypt was very positive, explained all the help that is offered/available. STR was very negative with their response being "we have the crème-de-la-crème" here - no boy struggles". Their is a new head at STR now, so hopefully attitudes have changed.

I think Mum66 has the logical answer - visit the schools independently and have ready the list of your concerns and don't be afraid to ask questions.

[Stressed?Moi?]

A little bit off A.D.D. topic but when we visited both schools a few years ago we asked the question "if a DS is struggling with a subject are their procedures in place to assist his progress". Crypt was very positive, explained all the help that is offered/available. STR was very negative with their response being "we have the crème-de-la-crème" here - no boy struggles". Their is a new head at STR now, so hopefully attitudes have changed.

I think Mum66 has the logical answer - visit the schools independently and have ready the list of your concerns and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Thanks Cazien - when you've got the pick of the crop, I guess it's easy to rule out anyone who is on the "too hard" pile!! I would much rather ds be happy than stressed because he can't keep up. Because of his work rate (ie, it's very good - if you don't mind the wait ), he can be quite frustrating. It is definitely worth a look at these schools to be able to ask searching and specific questions. As you say, a new Head may shake things up a bit. I've also had a suggestion from another member about Pates - it does pay to keep your mind open I suppose, as I had ruled it out.
Cheers

[MedievalBabe]

STR does provide some help for boys who struggle as my son is in an English focus group and we have been told that at any point a boy may need extra support from the focus group depending upon the focus for the term. He is in there due to his lazy spelling, but he says he has really felt the benefits.

But I would definitely follow mum66's advice as that is the only way to get a feeling for the support your son would get.