Q: Christina's* son David* is almost 10. He has Asperger's Syndrome and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and goes to a mainstream school, with the help of a full time approved social worker. David was also born with a gastro oesophageal reflex - which means he has a problem with choking. He takes 5mg of Ritalin every day to help with ADHD. David's school has in the past had an occasional problem with the administration of his drugs and David is unable to attend school when the approved social worker is absent. Christina is very unhappy that David misses out on some school activities such as swimming and residential trips and claims he is discriminated against because of his disability. She asked the School Gate experts for their advice.

*Names have been changed

A: We are very sorry to hear about your difficulties navigating your way around the education system. Please dont give up - there is plenty of support available. Try contacting SNAP CYMRU and asking for their advice in terms of advocacy.

Find out if you have a parent partnership officer in your Local Education Authority - it's worth asking for help from that individual to mediate for you. Another organization you may want to speak to is IPSEA, who can offer legal advice and mediation as well.

It's also worth contacting the National Autistic Society and asking for advice.

If you contact the Disability Rights Commission, they have a booklet for schools and you could discuss the case with them and seek advice.

We hope this is some help in order for you to seek a route through this for you and your son.

If all else fails, have you also thought about home tutoring - have a look at the Education Otherwise website for help regarding this.