Mother fights on to find autistic son Tobie a school as petition hits 3,500

Tobie Williams, aged five, from Perton, has been denied a school specific to his needs according to his mother Charlotte Orlowski.

The youngster suffers severe separation anxiety and acute distress as part of his condition, but his parents have been told he must make a lengthy car trip every day if they want him to attend a school suitable for his needs.

Mrs Orlowski has been trying to get him into Tettenhall Wood School, which has facilities and staff geared towards helping autistic children, but the school is oversubscribed.

Tobie was offered a place at Cherry Trees School in Wombourne, but Mrs Orlowski insists the rush hour commute and facilities available doesn't make it a feasible option, so Tobie is at home for the start of term. Her petition currently has 3,523 supporters. She said: "It's a sad time for us as other children go back to school, that's not an option for Tobie."

County Councillor Ben Adamssaid: "We have remained in regular contact with Tobie's mum who has requested a further meeting with their Special Educational SEND Keyworker.

"There is an appeals process which is available for parents who disagree with a local authority's decisions in relation to their child's special educational needs, and we will advise and assist."

To see the petition, visit www.change.org/p/nicky-morgan-mp-my-son-deserves-a-school-place-the-system-is-failing-him