If a classroom assistant is not made available from the beginning of the school term for teenagers with autism, then they may have to abandon their GCSEs.
Tony Humphreys’ family asked for help but the Education Authority (EA) has still not confirmed any support.
Toni mentioned in the BBC News NI that, he really struggled to stay focused and stay on task with work, without a classroom assistant.
The EA said that they will continue to work and support all children with a statement of special educational needs (SEN).
Toni was first diagnosed with autism at the age of 12. They had to repeat the first year of their GCSE studies, and it made a difference in school, when they initially had a part-time classroom assistant. He also said, that autism could cause them to “get very panicky” when feeling overwhelmed.
I really struggle to get into classes or speak to people even, without a classroom assistant, because I feel that no one will listen to me and I am not going to get any support which I need to function well in school, says Tony.
Toni’s father Michael Humphreys said that he had contacted the EA a number of times to clarify, because then they can organize on what to do next.
The EA came back and said that they hadn’t started the review process yet, which was quite disconcerting to us.
We’re now two weeks before school starts, since support is not available to any classes, Toni may not get a class to attend.
Toni said doing well in their GCSE was “vital” because of their future career plans.
They said they would have hoped for advance warning from the EA on whether they would get a classroom assistant so they could plan accordingly for either staying in school or giving up.
Knowing things in advance really helps to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.
An EA spokesperson said in a statement to BBC News NI that, it continues to work to confirm all children with a statement of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive a placement and support which meets their needs completely to ensure that they are happy, succeeding and learning, which will be our top priority.
We totally understand the worry of parents and the impact on those children and young people awaiting confirmation of support for September and are definitely committed to continuing to keep families fully informed during August.
They also mentioned that, anyone with concerns can contact their link officer directly or the SEND helpline.
