A new specialist unit for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is to be created at a primary school.
Cabinet members have authorised the refurbishment of underutilised space at Wittering Primary School to create a dedicated SEND Specialist Unit for up to 40 children with Social, Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) needs aged between 4-11 years old. The unit is set to open in September 2027, providing a nurturing and inspiring environment that enables every child to flourish.
The move is part of the council’s commitment to ensuring every child and young person can access quality education in their local community, regardless of their individual needs. It will also help every child to feel valued, included, and supported to thrive within their local mainstream school and where the strengths and potential of children with SEND are recognised and celebrated.
This approach is in alignment with the government’s recent White Paper Reforms, setting out the expectation that children with SEND should be able to attend their local school and have their needs met by trained staff.
To guarantee the highest standards of provision, council officers are working closely with school staff and the Soke Education Trust, who run Wittering Primary School, on the design and implementation of the unit.
Enhanced training, supervision, and ongoing support will be provided to ensure that all staff are equipped with the skills and expertise to deliver aspirational outcomes for children with SEND. Collaboration with local special schools will further enrich the experience and capability of the team at the school, ensuring continuity of care and excellence in teaching.
Councillor Katy Cole, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “I am delighted that this new unit will be created and confident it will have a positive effect for pupils and staff at Wittering Primary School. By investing in inclusive provision, we are ensuring that children and families can remain rooted in their communities while benefiting from specialist support.
“Our vision is for every child to experience belonging and opportunity in their local school, supported by trained staff who share our commitment. This new unit will help us realise this key aim and I look forward to seeing it established.
"As with any new development, myself and fellow councillors are happy to speak with local residents. The school has ensured us that site improvements will be carried out respectfully and with the best interests of the community at heart."
Cathy Carlisle CEO of Soke Education Trust said: "We are excited to provide specialised teaching and resources that will be carefully targeted to children with SEND. Ensuring that all the children who attend the new unit within our school can succeed and belong is vital to us."
You can read the Cabinet meeting agenda on our website.