Moving schools could be ‘catastrophic’ for boy after support is axed

by Jessica Earnshaw, Reporter Thursday, February 28, 2013
11:12 AM

A 13-year-old with behavioural problems could be uprooted from a school he loves with “catastrophic” consequences, after his family were forced to move out of the borough due to financial pressures.

Reuben Campbell has emotional, social and behavioural problems and has 25 hours support at Valentines High School, Cranbrook Road, Gants Hill, where he has been for three years.

His support could be stopped after both Redbridge and Newham Council refused to fund his one-to-one support at the school since the family moved from Langley Crescent, Wanstead, after Reuben’s father lost his job.

The “only option” was to move in with his aunt in Albert Road, North Woolwich.

His mother, Angela, believes moving schools could be “catastrophic” to his education, especially as he approaches his GCSEs.

She said: “Since Year 4 he was on the verge of being excluded on three or four occasions.

“When he first moved to Valentines his behaviour got worse, however, what was amazing about the school was that they were patient with him and now Reuben really trusts his teachers and is progressing well.”

The family moved as rent prices in Redbridge were too high. Mrs Campbell added: “It took a long time for my son to settle into his school.

“He’s made good progress and made a lot of friends which were the main problems before. For him to be uprooted and transfer to another school would be catastrophic.”

Newham Council have found a place for Reuben at The Royal Docks Community School, Custom House, but his family believe this would “disrupt” everything he has managed to achieve while at Valentines High.

Newham Council added: “We have very carefully reviewed Reuben’s case and are clear that a place in a Newham school will be suitable to meet his needs. Many children have to move schools and we believe Reuben would not be unduly affected.” A tribunal will be held on April 29.