A planned Special Educational Needs (SEN) school in Punchbowl Lane, Dorking has faced a significant setback after an initial application was quashed on appeal. The Department for Education (DfE) is now preparing to resubmit the application amidst concerns over traffic and safety. This delay is causing considerable distress for local families, including Michelle, whose autistic son with ADHD has struggled in mainstream education.
Michelle's son previously attended The Priory School in Dorking, where he experienced low-level bullying and sensory overload, leading to difficulties in coping with the environment. Although The Priory School responded promptly to the bullying concerns, Michelle's son now receives only two hours of one-on-one support daily in subjects like maths, English, and science. He is missing the opportunity to pursue more GCSEs due to the lack of appropriate educational facilities.
The plans to convert a former nursery site into Betchwood Vale Academy were initially submitted in November 2022 and received approval from Mole Valley District Council. However, these plans were later overturned on appeal. A spokesperson from the council confirmed that the DfE is working on resubmitting an application for the proposed SEN school, aiming to address the previous objections.
Michelle expressed her disappointment and frustration over the stalled plans, noting the impact on her son's education.
"We thought if my son wasn't able to cope with mainstream school then the new school would be an option if we needed it." – Michelle
With the delay, she now faces the prospect of considering specialist schools located an hour away.
"It's going to be of no use to us now." – Michelle
Michelle's son is currently preparing for his GCSEs with limited teaching time, which she believes is insufficient for his needs. The delay in establishing a specialized educational facility has left many families in a difficult position, as they seek alternatives to provide their children with the necessary support for their academic and personal growth.
