Katie and Harvey summed up the feelings of many parents, says principal of specialist Shropshire college

BBC documentary, Katie Price: Harvey and Me, took viewers on an emotional journey which Principal Meryl Green says will be familiar to many parents of young people with special educational needs, disabilities or autism.

The former glamour model's son, Harvey, was born with Septic Optic Dysplasia and has autism, associated learning difficulties and some challenging behaviours.

The programme followed the mother and son as they explored a future for him at a residential college.

Derwen College, in Gobowen, near Oswestry, is a residential and day college with students from all over England and Wales.

"Families from as far afield as Dorset and Yorkshire will travel for up to four hours to ensure their young person receives the education and care that is right for them," the principal said.

The college offers work pathways in Retail, Horticulture, Hospitality, Performing Arts and bespoke independence programmes to ensure that every student reaches their full potential during their time at college.

"For many, the hope is that their young person will go on to find employment and a more independent life.

“The BBC programme Katie Price: Harvey and Me highlighted the mixed emotions felt by parents and carers of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) when considering their future education, care and independence.

“Moving on from school to college is a huge step for anyone, it is a time of anxiety but also great opportunity and excitement as young people are supported to make their next steps towards adulthood – this is no different for young people with SEND.

“A residential college, like Derwen and the ones that Harvey looked at, encourages independence, employability and a wonderful social experience mixing with like-minded young people.

“When families come to look around Derwen College campus, they are often struck by how like a mainstream college or university it feels. A big part of life at a residential college is the same as for any teenager leaving home: independence, greater freedoms and a social life."

“It is important that families start to look at their young person’s future as early as possible as there are big decisions to be made. Finding the right college with the right support, which offers learning in the areas that interest and inspire the young person is vital."

Derwen College recommends that families follow Katie Price’s lead and start their search with the Natspec Directory, a directory with a full list of expert residential and day colleges.

Ruth Perry, Natspec Senior Policy Manager said: "The programme shone a light on the difficult decisions families of young people with complex needs have to take as they transition into adulthood.

"Just nine per cent of families start exploring post-school options in Year 9 in line with the SEND Code of Practice. There should be more specialist help should be on hand to help families like Katie and Harvey Price to understand what’s out there for them. "

To find out more about Derwen College, visit derwen.ac.uk where you can register to join the virtual Spring Open Day on March 6.