How To Apply
How to Apply
Who are we for?
Many of the young people who are referred to LVS Oxford have encountered negative school experiences as a result of their diagnosis, which may have resulted in school refusal or negative school experiences.
It is often at this point that referrals are made to LVS Oxford.
For these reasons, we strongly believe that referrals and admissions to the school should be a partnership building process with parents, the Local Authority and the school, designed to ensure that the school can meet the needs of the prospective learner.
All applicants are carefully considered to ensure that the school is suitable for the young person’s age, ability, aptitude and special educational needs and that the attendance of the young person would be compatible with the efficient education of other students already attending the school.
All young people admitted to LVS Oxford SEN school:
- Have a primary diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
- Have an Education, Health and Care Plan
- Are aged between 11-16
- May have additional needs associated with ASD
Please read our Process of Admissions to get a better understanding of how to start applying to LVS Oxford.
Process of Admissions
At each stage of the admissions process, the Admissions Team carefully evaluates the suitability of the prospective student. This evaluation considers:
- The individual needs and profile of the student
- The composition and dynamics of the current peer group at LVS Oxford
- The profile of the incoming peer group
- The ability of LVS Oxford to meet the student’s needs through its existing provision
Only if there is a strong alignment between these factors will the admissions process proceed to the next stage.
Stage 1
The Admissions Team will only consider an initial consultation from the Local Authority
Due to the EHCP linked funding for a placement at LVS Oxford being dependent upon Local Authority agreement; to begin the admissions process, we require an official consultation request from the Local Authority.
There is an option to initially privately fund a placement at LVS Oxford whilst you are obtaining an EHCP for your child. However, before proceeding with the admissions process, the Admissions Team would need to see confirmation from the Local Authority that they have completed an EHC Needs Assessment and have agreed to issue an EHCP.
Stage 2
Current Setting Contact and/or Visit
As part of our safeguarding responsibilities, a member of the Admissions Team will contact the student’s current setting. Additionally, a visit to the setting may be arranged to observe the student in a familiar environment, interacting with known adults and peers. This helps us gather further insight into the student’s suitability for the intended cohort and assess how resources can be allocated efficiently and effectively.
We request as much information as possible including educational, medical and any safeguarding reports to assist with the decision on whether to proceed with the consultation. We also work with schools, parents/carers, Local Authorities and external agencies to ensure that the decision to proceed with the admissions process is based on full disclosure of complete, accurate, reliable and up to date information.
Stage 3
Online Interview
A member of the Admissions Team will arrange an online interview with the family. The interview is a conversation with the Admissions Team to find out more about the student. It is a chance for yourself to ask any questions you have about LVS Oxford and for the Admissions Team to get a better understanding of the needs and profile of the student.
Stage 4
School-Based Assessment Visit
Once it has been determined that the young person potentially meets the admission criteria and a place is available in the relevant key stage, an assessment visit to the school will be arranged.
During the assessment period, the child will take part in timetabled activities. Their views will be gathered through a questionnaire, the results of which will be shared with the Admissions Team.
If necessary, the school may request an additional assessment visit to gather further information.
Stage 5
Transition into school
Following successful assessment visits, an Offer Letter will be sent to the Local Authority and parents/carers will be informed. Any placement offered will be subject to the full cost of the placement unless there has been prior agreement between the Local Authority and the school. Following acceptance of the place and confirmation of funding from the Local Authority, a transition plan will be agreed between parents, the Local Authority and the school.
We recommend you phone or email us if you have any questions about our admissions process or criteria. Call 01865 595 170 (9am-5pm Mon-Fri) or email: admission.enquiries@lvs-oxford.org.uk