I have worked in special needs institutions for nearly 10 years now and we fight a losing battle with Merton Council for resources for our children. We rely on outside agencies to supply us with services free of charge.

As to the figures Mr Runnette mentions, does not every child deserve a chance? I can only assume that these special children have very complex needs which cannot be met otherwise.

To my knowledge bright children can sit entry exams for various kinds of grants at various private schools but special needs children cannot.

I have worked in various boroughs over the last few years and Merton is the least likely to spend money on education (special or otherwise) and it seems that they have made it their goal to not only run down EBD and SEN schools but also make a concerted effort in hiding this state of affairs.

We have ancient computer equipment, generally there is a shortage of funds for teaching materials and we have virtually no chance of providing practical NVQs because of lack of funding. Staff are grossly underpaid and still delivers excellent work because they care.

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