“My child is struggling in school. I want a move to another school, but am at a loss how to achieve this.”

Your child is not flourishing at school. Your relationship with the school may be getting strained. Your household is under stress and you think a fresh start may help. No-one in ‘the system’ seems to want to listen.

You are not alone, but with all the good schools full, your options seem limited. As with many things in life, there are two sides to this coin. Yes, your child may benefit from a fresh start. You may have more power to achieve this than you think. But no, a fresh start is unlikely to be a miracle solution and some responsibility for the situation may rest with your child. Your child’s chances of success may rest with getting the right support.

There is rarely an easy answer, but I may be able to help you pick your way through this minefield.

First, however, be sure to discuss this fully with your school, the School Attendance Officer or other relevant professionals at the County Council (See ‘Where to go for help’ in the resources section). If your child has special needs, try seeking the advice of the County Council’s Parent Partnership advisor.