Admissions

Pupils are admitted to the school following a request from the Local Authority.

Below the age of 5, children are placed through an ‘informal’ process that usually begins when they are identified as having some difficulties in their development. Very often the initial contact is through health professionals working in the community who are in touch with all young children.

After discussion with parents, the Community Paediatrician or another professional may bring the needs of the child to the attention of the Local Authority by referring them to the Early Years Panel. Parents may also request support directly from the Local Authority.

If the Local Authority feels that Bettridge Assessment Centre may be able to help the child then it will request a place at the Centre.

Children can be placed from the age of 2 and will usually attend on a part-time basis until they approach school age.

Children over the age of 5 are placed at Bettridge School following a full multidisciplinary assessment and will usually have a Statement of Special Educational Needs.

Once a request has been made to admit a child of any age to the school a member of staff will contact parents and make arrangements for them to visit if they have not already done so.

Following this visit the practical details will be arranged between the family and the school so that the child can have a successful and positive introduction to Bettridge in a way which suits them and their family.

The Headteacher is always happy to meet with parents of children for whom Bettridge School may provide a suitable placement before any request is made. Any parent who would like the opportunity to gain information in this way should contact the school and ask to make a visit.