Special school at planning stage – have your say at open meeting

A NEW free school is due to open in Ickenham next year.

If given the go-ahead by the Department for Education, it will be part of The Eden Academy group, which specialises in schools for young people who have special educational needs. It already runs schools in Eastcote, Hillingdon and Harrow.

The new Pentland Field School will be at the former US Air Force school, in Pentland Way, and will cater for five to 19-year-olds who have learning difficulties, including pupils on the autistic spectrum.

The school will be refurbished to provide purpose-built accommodation for 32 pupils when it opens in January 2015.

It will eventually teach 140 pupils after a phased period of extension, building new classrooms, therapy rooms and an outside space for play and exploration.

Principal of Eden Academy John Ayres said: “As part of our consultation process we are holding two public information meetings where there will be an opportunity to hear more about our plans for the school, meet with key members of staff including the new head of school, and ask any questions you may have.

“We all look forward to meeting with parents, teachers and community members.”

The meetings are being held on Monday, September 29 at 1.30pm in Ickenham Village Hall, and on Tuesday, September 30 at 7.30pm at Grangewood School, in Eastcote.

There is also an online questionnaire at www. theedenacademy.co.uk, or you can call 01895 676 401 or email info@theeden academy.co.uk to request a paper copy.