Plan for more special needs school places

2 days ago

Andrew DawkinsWest Midlands

News image — Staff at the council said they knew there was a need for more Send places

PA Media Hands of children wearing blue are raised. The back of the heads of two children are visible. The background is blurred. — Staff at the council said they knew there was a need for more Send places

More than 100 new special educational needs (Send) school places could be created under plans from a council.

Staff with Telford & Wrekin Council said they were looking to increase available space as part of budget proposals for the year ahead, investing £1.7m to create new Send hubs attached to mainstream schools.

The scheme would build on the success of ones opened at Millbrook Primary School and Newport Junior School last year, they added.

The council's proposed budget for 2026-27 commits £150m to supporting vulnerable children, people with disabilities and older adults.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds said, while most children with special educational needs were able to go to mainstream school, the authority needed to have more Send places too.

"By developing these hubs within schools, it allows children to access full-time education in a dedicated environment, with the benefit of being part of the wider school community," she added.

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