Provision to establish 50 new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) places at the Northwood Centre is a significant step forward. Through this project, these flexibilities will meaningfully expand educational opportunities for children with SEND in their local community. This new initiative will cost £1.27m a year. Its main aim is to make sure children and young people receive high-quality education in the appropriate setting.
We expect the Northwood Centre to be an invaluable resource. It will play an important role in addressing the increasing need for special school placements across the county. At present, the county is paying around £3.1 million a year in out-of-county placements at independent non-maintained specialist schools (INMSS). By establishing these new places, the county anticipates saving around £1.83 million, thus optimizing its resources while providing necessary support to families.
Jon Hubbard, the cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills made it clear that this initiative is essential. He stated, “We want our children in need of a special school place to remain in our county, and are determined to meet that need.” Hubbard believes that the Northwood Centre will not only create urgently needed local placements but reflect the county’s commitment to inclusive and high-quality education.
The Northwood Centre was developed to help advance the county’s vision. It contributes to an increased ability to keep children with SEND in schools locally. All families will reap the rewards of expanded educational options, but none more so than those who too frequently struggle to find the best placement for their child.
Philip Tansley, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Portage, welcomed proposals to improve early support for families with SEND. Yet, he admitted that there is still “a long way to go” in ensuring the best possible SEND provision. His observations shown the persistent need for evolution within the educational system to genuinely meet the needs of all families.
Hubbard further elaborated on the potential impact of the Northwood Centre, stating, “Repurposing The Northwood Centre as a special school satellite will create urgently needed places locally, reduce costs, and deliver on our commitment to inclusive, high-quality education.” This initiative is a great example of taking positive action to meet the needs of children with SEND in the local area.
