Finding a place

How does a child get a place at a special school or unit?

The process of placing a child in a special school or unit is usually started by the mainstream school where the child is having difficulties, or by the education psychologist who works with the school. Some children with particular needs never attend a mainstream school and go straight to a special school.

The process involves gathering evidence from a number of sources, such as education and health professionals, teachers and parents. Local authority officers consider each case and make recommendations for a school place. Admission to some provisions is by a panel administered by the council.

Which units need a statement of SEN?

Statements are needed for placements at:

Hedworthfield Language Unit
Fellgate Unit
Jarrow Post 11 Centre

Sometimes a placement is made for pupils at School Action Plus (without a statement).

Statements are not a requirement in:

Ashley Child Development Unit
Luke's Lane & St. Mary's Primary Behaviour Support Units
Jarrow Hearing Impaired Resource Base
Simonside (primary) & Jarrow (secondary) Hearing Impaired Unit

Unit Where to apply
Luke's Lane Primary Behaviour Support Unit St. Mary's Primary Behaviour Support Unit	Pupil Services Town Hall & Civic Offices Westoe Rd, South Shields NE33 2RL 0191 424 7808
Fellgate Unit
Jarrow Post 11 Centre
All Special Schools
Hedworthfield Language Unit
Ashley Child Development Centre	The Educational Psychology Service Chuter Ede Education Centre Galsworthy Rd, South Shields NE34 9UG 0191 424 519 1909
Hearing Impaired Units	Sensory Impairment Service Chuter Ede Education Centre Galsworthy Rd, South Shields NE34 9UG 0191 424 519 1909

In all cases the school/person submitting the request should send a letter with supporting documentation to the relevant service above.

Children placed in special schools have a statement of special educational needs.

In exceptional cases a few children have been placed in a special school without having a statement on the understanding that a statutory assessment will be carried out.