Special Needs - getting into the school of your choice

My child has a statement of special educational needs – can they go to any school they want?
Basically, yes. A formal statement of special educational needs means that a child’s needs are recognised and resources will be allocated to their needs.
Also, virtually all schools now abide by the Government’s code of practice which clearly indicated that in terms of admission criteria into schools, a statement of special educational needs should go at point number 1, having the same status as looked after children.
Theoretically then, a school with a really good reputation for SEN could admit a higher proportion than you might have otherwise expected.

Dinner Ladies - now there's a topic!

My school does not have enough dinner ladies – is there a legal minimum?
The answer to this is not really. Schools are en loco parentis (in the place of parents) and clearly have a duty of care. However, it will be the decision of the Headteacher and Governors to appoint midday staff. It is also true to say that in some areas and in some schools it is an extremely difficult role to fill – the pay is very low and at times they do a ‘thankless’ task! So, it really comes down to interpretation – it is not uncommon for a ration of 1 midday superviser to 50 children but this can operate quite safely if the school is generally a safe and well run place.
Schools also offer training for midday supervisers (or should do) – as usual, if you do have concerns though, it is worth raising these with the school.