| Ruth Kelly row highlights vital role of independent schools in helping special needs youngsters |
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Ruth Kelly’s decision to send her son to a private school shows the state sector can never cater for every child with special needs, says Bredon School’s Principal, David Keyte. The former Education Secretary has drawn heavy criticism for her decision, but Mr Keyte thinks those who believe that state schools can always provide the best education for all special needs children are misguided. “Bredon School, like many other independent schools around the country, has for many years welcomed a small number of pupils with special needs whose places are funded by their local education authorities,” explains Mr Keyte. “That is a very sensible, cost-effective use of public money, because it’s just not practical for every council to provide specialist help for every special need within its own boundaries.” Around 10 per cent of the 220 pupils at Bredon School, near Tewkesbury, are currently funded by local education authorities. Most of these children are dyslexic and benefit from the help of specialist teachers working in the school’s Access Centre, headed by Vice Principal Sue Webb. Mr Keyte adds: “Bredon is a mainstream school not a Special School, but we are here particularly for the child who has struggled elsewhere, either because of dyslexia or perhaps just because he or she is sensitive and has found it hard to cope with the cut and thrust of a large comprehensive.” Not all the dyslexic pupils at Bredon are funded by local education authorities: others, including a number from overseas, are children whose parents have selected Bredon School because it offers the right specialist help. “We have many parents who have made considerable financial sacrifices to send their children here so they can receive the help they need with their dyslexia,” adds Mr Keyte. “I would never criticise any parents for their choice of school: these are often difficult decisions and parents are naturally anxious to do the best for their child. There is, however, a certain irony in Ruth Kelly’s predicament, because the Labour Government has tried to move more and more special needs children into mainstream education, often in the face of parental opposition and professional advice.” ENDS Issued on behalf of Bredon School by Edge Media MEDIA CONTACTS: Principal Mr David Keyte on 01684 293156 or Paul Herbert at Edge Media on 01453 842020 |