This study is part of a Doctoral research which provides nuanced understanding about how South Asian families manage their relationships with mainstream and special schools. Currently, there are very few studies within the South Asian context which highlight parental understanding of inclusive education, or indeed parental experiences of the critical transition stages in their child’s school life. The aim of this ongoing research is to initially explore how South Asian mothers of children with SEND view, negotiate and perform their roles within their child’s education, and to elucidate their experiences of placement decision-making. This subsequently links into their views on the school’s role in their child’s education. This research will explore the preferences of South Asian mothers when considering special school or mainstream placements for their children with SEND.  The research questions this study intends to address are:

• What are the views and expectations of South Asian mothers (of children with SEND) of their own roles in their child’s education?
• What are the views and expectations of these South Asian mothers with regards to the school’s role in their child’s life?
• How do broader influences like culture, religion, gender, and/or immigrant history affect their experiences of supporting their child in the UK?
• What are the factors that influence South Asian mothers’ preferences for deciding on special school or mainstream placement for their children with SEND?

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