ADMISSION PROCEDURE

We aim to make the referral process as effective as possible for placing authorities and to encourage informal and formal contact from interested professionals and parents.

Informally we welcome contact by telephone to discuss vacancy levels and explore the suitability of potential referrals. The formal referral system is as follows:

1. When a local authority expresses interest in placing a young person at Alpha School, parents, the Social Worker and Educational Psychologist are invited to visit the school.

2. If placement is deemed appropriate our Head of Education and Head of Psychology visit the young person’s home and school.

3. Our Placement Group meets to assess whether we can meet the young person’s needs.

4. When a referral seems appropriate, the local authority is invited to submit an application to the Head of Education.

5. Submission by the placing authority of referral form and an updated social, health and educational history.

6. Whenever applicable the young person and his/her family will be invited to visit Alpha School, tour the facilities, meet with staff and get to know pupils.

7. The implementation of an admission plan. This includes a written report detailing specific educational and emotional needs, health factors, dietary requirements, class-teacher, classroom, key-worker, bedroom, and other essential information required to ensure the young person’s smooth introduction into Alpha School.

8. All new pupils undergo a 3 month assessment period to ensure that Alpha School can best meet their needs.