In very rare cases, a child may not be able to have their needs met by any school or college in Devon. For these pupils, Devon County Council will sometimes organise and fund independent special schools or services outside of Devon.
This may include residential schools or settings. These decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis, based on whether the placement is:
- suitable for the age, ability or aptitude of the child or young person
- compatible with the efficient education of others
- an efficient use of public resources
These settings would only be appropriate for children and young people with an education, health and care (EHC) plan.
We know that children and young people benefit most from being part of their community and close to their family. There are fewer issues with transferring their independence skills when they can learn and develop their skills in the locality where they are likely to live.
We will consider, wherever possible, suitable provision that will be named in an EHC plan on a ‘local first’ basis.
- We will consider local mainstream provision first, whenever appropriate, before considering a specialist provision or a residential option.
- In line with the recommendations in the SEND Code of Practice, we will consider independent placements with the providers who have been approved by the Secretary of State, who are described as Section 41 providers by the Education and Skills Funding Agency if the child or young person’s needs cannot be met within a mainstream provision.
- We will not consider placements in the wider independent sector unless there are exceptional circumstances.
More information about approved independent special schools can be found on the government website.