FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
We believe our website is comprehensive, and the site map should guide you to most of the information you require. We have tried to cover here some of the other queries that often arise.
Why don’t you have more girls?
We only became co-educational in 2004, and have only been able to offer boarding places for girls since 2009. Our number of girls has increased steadily each year, and in 2010/11 we expect at least a quarter of the school to be girls. In Year 7 girls and boys are equal in number.
Can we get any help with the fees?
Apart from Local Education Authority funding there are a number of other potential sources of help with at least part of the fees. Have a look at our dedicated page attached to the ‘Fees’ page.
The statementing process is very long and complicated. Can I get help from anyone?
There are a number of organisations that will give help and advice to parents trying to find their way through the difficult process of assessment, statementing, and funding. Please see our ‘Useful links’ page, or contact the school office.
You advertise that you cater for children with Asperger’s Syndrome. Doesn’t that have an adverse impact on your dyslexic pupils?
Like all similar schools we accept pupils with a range of special educational needs, and each child’s mix of needs is slightly different. We take considerable care to ensure that all the children we accept will fit in well with our whole school community, and that Specific Learning Difficulties will always remain our primary focus. Over 80% of pupils have Literacy difficulties as their primary SEN.
Is school transport available for day pupils?
We keep our transport provision under regular review. At present we provide daily transport to Hastings and St Leonards for a supplementary charge. We regret that due to the recent 'vetting and barring' legislation we can no longer put parents in touch with others who live in their area, but if car sharing arrangements are agreed between parents at their own responsibility, that is fine!
Can children from Frewen Juniors succeed back in mainstream senior schools?
A lot depends on the severity of their needs and the support available at alternative schools. They will certainly have learned some coping skills that will enhance their prospects in later education anywhere, but the majority will benefit from continuing with the comprehensive specialist support available at our own senior school.
Do you accept pupils with emotional and behavioural problems?
We do not admit pupils with EBD. Some pupils with SpLD may have developed behavioural problems as a reaction to not having previously received adequate support. If we are satisfied that this is the cause, we will normally be happy to give them an opportunity.
You claim good exam results. Does that mean you put pupils under a lot of pressure?
In short, no, but we also don’t let pupils use their SpLD as an excuse for not trying. Most of our staff have specialist training, and we ensure that all appropriate exam concessions are obtained. Pupils are encouraged to believe they can succeed if they try, we treat each one as an individual, and we work with their strengths. The results then look after themselves.
