Hi there.

This is my very first posting so I hope I’ve done it right!

My husband and I are hoping very much to move to Spain with our 2 children. Whilst we are looking forward to a better life I am feeling very anxious about finding appropriate schooling for my eldest daughter, Alysia, who has Down Syndrome; she is 2 years old.

I was hoping that we may be able to place her in a British/International school, however, the ones I have contacted so far say they have no provisions for special needs children and that was that. No-one has really suggested what would be available for Alysia or offered an alternative.

I know that children with Down’s Syndrome are integrated into mainstream state schools but my only concern with this is that Alysia needs English to be her first language (this is in order for her speech development). From what I understand, if she went to a state school Spanish would be the main language which she would find difficult in her early years.

I was wondering if any expats know of families that have moved across with children with special needs (not just Down Syndrome) and as to what was available for their schooling?  Does anyone know if home schooling is a available as an option?

I would be very grateful if someone can help me or point me in the right direction.

Many thanks,

Saphia.