For Sonia, the decision to enrol her son Hudson in a specialist school was one of the hardest choices she had to make as a parent. Like many parents, Sonia hoped that her local school would provide everything Hudson needed to succeed. However, after years of struggle in a mainstream setting, where Hudson’s unique needs weren’t being met, Sonia found herself at a crossroads. That’s when she made the life-changing decision to move Hudson to a specialist school—and the difference has been profound.

“Honestly, it was the biggest relief I’ve ever felt,” Sonia recalls. “I used to sit outside his classroom in the cold, just to be nearby in case he needed me. Now, I can drop him off, knowing that he’s safe, understood, and learning. It’s an indescribable feeling.”

Hudson now attends Ferndale School, a specialist school in Christchurch that has transformed his educational experience. The smaller class sizes and personalised learning plans have allowed Hudson to flourish, especially in areas like maths and creative writing, which he struggled with previously. “He’s finally learning, rather than just trying to manage his behaviour in a crowded classroom,” Sonia says.

The support from the school’s staff has been beyond her expectations. “The collaboration between the school and whānau is incredible. They don’t just solve problems—they work with us to ensure Hudson is progressing in all aspects of his life.”

Sonia understands that choosing a specialist school can feel daunting. “As a teacher, I was set on my kids going to the local school. It took time to accept that it wasn’t the right fit for Hudson. But now, I have no regrets. Ferndale has been the best decision we could have made for him and for our family.”

Today, Sonia envisions a bright future for Hudson, one that she never thought possible before enrolling him in a specialist school. “I see him living a successful, independent life—something I wasn’t sure would ever happen.”

If you’re a parent navigating similar challenges, specialist schools like Ferndale provide a nurturing environment where your child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s not just about education—it’s about giving your child the opportunity to reach their full potential.

If you’re considering specilist education for your child, click the link bellow for more information on enrollment and how to get started.