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School-less boy sends PM letter
11:23am Monday 10th December 2007
A 13-YEAR-OLD boy with Asperger's syndrome has handed a letter to the Prime Minister with a request for more specialist schools in the area.
Gregory O'Donnell, of Arnold Avenue, Meopham, has been without a school since July when his parents and school teachers agreed it was best for Gregory to leave the mainstream school he was attending.
His behaviour at Meopham School, in Wrotham Road, Meopham, was causing a health and safety risk to himself and other pupils.
Gregory's mother, Lisa O'Donnell, 39, said: "His obsessive compulsive habits caused disruption and made him a target for bullying. We decided it was best for everyone he moved out of the school. He has been at home since then.
"As a result of this, Gregory suffers from isolation, social rejection and depression and I demand a school which specialises in Asperger's.
"The process of finding a specialist, high-functioning autism school is so long. The only school in Kent which could meet some of his needs is in Margate which is already 30 pupils over its quota.
"We have had to go as far as Guildford to apply for a school which could cater for his needs. He wants to do something, which is why he has written to Gordon Brown to tell him what it's like being at home every day."
Gregory was accompanied to Downing Street by Gravesham MP, Adam Holloway, who said: "The delay in this case is systematic of each stage of the special needs process taking the maximum statutory time when parents, schools and the local education authority cannot agree."
Kent County Council cabinet member for children, families and educational standards Councillor Chris Wells said: "As is their right, Gregory's parents have expressed a preference for a particular school to be considered.
"Gregory is attending that school for an assessment this week.
"We look forward to advancing this process in the near future."
Asperger's syndrome is a form of autism which is characterised by difficulties in interacting socially.
Your Say YourNews Shopper
Caroline Heard, Swanley says...
7:27pm Mon 10 Dec 07
Phil Hoppenbrouwers, Gravesend says...
9:07am Thu 13 Dec 07
Gregory O'Donnell with his mother, Lisa NK9976
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nikki, kent says...
3:01pm Mon 10 Dec 07