wheeliewanttogo

We are thinking of making the move - probably Oz, maybe NZ. Big problem for us is our eldest is profoundly disabled. I can't find any detailed info on special needs education in Oz (and mainstream is definitely not for him).

Are there special needs schools which have day pupils?

Where can I find more details of them?

Are schools designated as in UK, PD (Physical Disabilities, MLD (Moderate Learning Disability) etc?

Are children statemented as in UK?

Any info or links would be brilliant.

Thanks in advance

R.

MrsDagboy

Wheelie, yes there are some special needs schools, if its PD there are also some schools that are main stream but have specially adaptions to allow full integration with non PD kids.

I dont know alot, only what I have experienced myself & general info, but others may have more knowledge. But I think it will definitely depend on where you are heading to in Oz or NZ as well. If you tell us that, then someone may be able to chase up more info for you .

wheeliewanttogo

Ah, now that was going to be my next question.

We are thinking of making the move for several reasons, one of which is better climate. We want to get our son away from cold wet winters which are very bad for his health. We also (and don't laugh if this is going to be impossible) need to avoid extremes of temperature hot or cold.

We are thinking of the Melbourne area as it seems most temperate. From what I've read its seems that NZ is too like UK, Sydney side even hotter than Melbourne and Perth side a bit on the wet/windy side.

Any advice/suggestions would be great. We are hoping to visit around Xmas and will visit any likely destinations.

We don't want to live too near a city but I guess education wise we will have to be reasonably close for my son to remain a day pupil.

Thanks again.
R.