Most children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) can get the support they need in mainstream nurseries, schools, or colleges. For more details on mainstream education, visit our schools and learning pages.
Special schools meet the needs of children and young people with more complex needs. This page provides information on special schools in Haringey, independent and non-maintained schools, alternative provisions, and the virtual school for looked-after and previously looked-after children.
Who can apply for a special school placement?
Most children with an EHCP attend mainstream settings. Special schools support children with the most complex needs.
A child can be considered for a special school placement if they:
- Have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
- Have severe and complex special educational needs
What special schools can help with
Special schools can support a variety of needs, including:
- Communication and interaction
- Cognition and learning
- Social, emotional, and mental health
- Sensory and physical needs
Some schools specialise in these categories, such as autism, vision impairment, or speech and language difficulties.
Independent and non-maintained schools
Independent and non-maintained schools are not maintained or overseen by Haringey Council.
Independent special schools and post-16 institutions approved by Department for Education
Schools in neighbouring boroughs
When placing a child in a school, we prioritise choosing one near their home. However, if we cannot meet your child's needs in a Haringey special school, we may arrange for them to attend a special school in another borough to ensure they receive the necessary support.
All school placements are discussed and agreed upon with you.
Below is a list of neighbouring boroughs to Haringey, along with links to their respective Local Offer websites.
Alternative Provision
Schools can arrange Alternative Provision (AP) when a child faces permanent exclusion or requires support beyond the school setting.
Alternative Provisions include Pupil Referral Units and medical needs/tuition services.
Alternative Provision encompasses non-mainstream, academy, special, or private/independent educational establishments.
It's important to act early if you have concerns about your child's school behaviour or believe they may benefit from Alternative Provision.
Contact your school's Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENDCO). The SENDCO plays a vital role in supporting students with diverse learning needs and can help you access the appropriate support and resources, including Alternative Provisions. For more information, visit the webpages below:
Virtual School for Looked-after and previously Looked-after children.
The Virtual School is a valuable resource that supports and encourages everyone involved in educating children in care. It actively promotes national and local initiatives to enhance the educational achievements of these children.
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