Recommendations of primary schools that are equipped to celebrate the strengths of children with ADHD Post Reply

[jlstark7]

Hello,

My family is considering moving from the United States (San Francisco) to London in a year or two.  We have two wonderful children ages 5 and 9, and are trying to better understand the British education system. 

Apologies if any of this is mis-phrased, but one of our most pressing questions relates to whether there are particular schools in or around London that are particularly strong when it comes to supporting/accommodating 9-10 year old boys with ADHD?  In the United States, our son is in a general education classroom at a public elementary school and receives minimal support. We do not think that he requires a school specifically dedicated to supporting children with special needs, though are interested in learning more about particular community schools, independent progressive schools, and preparatory schools that are equipped to celebrate the strengths (and provide support for some of the challenges) of neurodiverse individuals. 

Thank you, in advance, for any insights and suggestions.

Warmly,
Jen
 

[AJ2012]

Hello. It is very difficult here. Other parents are very often not supported or understanding and schools tend to focus on discipline rather than prevention. Following this in case anyone has good suggestions!

There are some Facebook groups for American special needs parents in the UK- try that also?

Do feel free to pm me. I have a child in a mainstream independent secondary who is diagnosed ADHD. My experience is that primary is harder, secondaries depend on your child’s interests.

[Btwmum]

There are several small private schools with small classes that cater very well to neurodivergent kids. Look 1-2 form schools with classes less than 15 who are not competitive. A few in top of my mind in nappy valley, dolphin school, la Roche, Eveline day school and as secondary Thames Christian school, Wimbledon hull, London park schools. I am sure there are many more. They are perfect for mainstream and send kids to great and competitive secondary schools and universities and cater super well to neurodivergent kids.

[jlstark7]

There are several small private schools with small classes that cater very well to neurodivergent kids. Look 1-2 form schools with classes less than 15 who are not competitive. A few in top of my mind in nappy valley, dolphin school, la Roche, Eveline day school and as secondary Thames Christian school, Wimbledon hull, London park schools. I am sure there are many more. They are perfect for mainstream and send kids to great and competitive secondary schools and universities and cater super well to neurodivergent kids.

Thank you!  This is quite helpful and encouraging!

[LetsDance]

I would add Parkgate House to the list above, single form and very caring. There are children with special needs in both my children’s years and their parents are very happy about everything. Definitely worth a visit!