Year 2 School Refuser, Autistic, Social and Emotional Needs
When S started at the Alt Prov he had been out of school for nearly a year. Many professionals had been unable to persuade him to return to a school setting.
I literally could not safely get him to school. He had become increasingly violent towards me and even concussed me and dislocated my jaw during one meltdown after school.
When I was offered a place at the Alt Prov I was delighted. S desperately needs the type of highly specialised teaching that Brian, Ryan and their team provide, where they understand his condition, his foibles, his behaviour and how to get through to him.
Since S started at the Alt Prov, Dad and I have seen huge progress at home. He has had two baths and had his hair washed (this hadn’t happened for over 18 months). Dad was able to cut S’s hair (not done since early 2019). I have been able to cut S’s toenails for the very first time in his life, which is just amazing. S has been excited to go to school, completing his morning routine easily and without meltdown or violence towards me.
Many, many professionals have been unable to do any direct work with S (apart from one or two rare occasions) and S’s social isolation has been highlighted as a key issue on his Child in Need Plan. As he often refused to leave the house during the day, the last year or so has been very isolating for the both of us. Through the Alt Prov, S has formed valuable relationships with male teachers and has begun interacting with the other pupils. His excitement and happiness at attending the Alt Prov has been an absolute joy to see.
This setting has been vital to his well-being and development.