Bailey, Derbyshire

My, now 13 year old son, attended mainstream school until year 6. During all his years at school he was working years above the national curriculum. I, his parent, was called up to the school almost daily as he was 'bored' and 'disruptive'. He was quickly labelled the 'naughty child' by his teachers. On all occasions I advised to give him work that stimulated and was more in line with his academic intelligence, to prevent him being bored. The answer I received every single time was "we can only issue work in line with the year's curriculum". He has been home educated for 18 months and is studying to sit his GCSE's in 2026 (he will be 14 years old).

It has also become apparent his 'disruptive' behaviour was him stimming and is now diagnosed autistic, which the school refused to acknowledge.

He is now home educated. Thriving in all areas. He is sitting his GCSE'S early, is fluent in reading music and is learning the saxophone and is currently receiving physical education and training to be an amateur boxer.

Make them person-centred rather than a 'one glove fit all' scenario