New free schools will benefit 3,000 pupils with special needs

UP TO 3,000 new school places will be created for children with special educational needs and disabilities, the Government has announced.

Thirty-five free schools will be opened from September 2022, providing tailored support and equipment to pupils with autism, severe learning difficulties and mental health conditions. Sensory equipment and communication aids are among the facilities to be delivered by specially trained teachers.

Gavin Williamson, the Education Secretary, announced yesterday that 33 school trusts have been approved to open and run 37 new schools – two of which will be for children at risk of being excluded. Boris Johnson, the prime Minister, said: “Every child deserves a superb education, regardless of their background or where they grew up, and these new schools will allow those with the most complex needs get the very best start in life.”

Mr Williamson added: “Now more than ever we need to make sure we are putting our most disadvantaged and vulnerable children first, including those with complex needs.

“This will give these young people the opportunity they deserve for tailored support in a school that responds to their individual needs, making them confident learners and engaged students.”

Free schools are set up by parents, teachers, charities, academy trusts and existing schools in response to demand from the local community. Secondary free schools are among the highest performing state-funded schools in the country. Once all special free schools in the pipeline are completed, the total number in England will be 128.

Four of the new schools will be in London, with 300 places; five will be in Yorkshire and the Humber, with 500 places; and six will be in south west England, with 500 places.

Unity Howard, director of New Schools Network, said: “Special and alternative provision free schools are some of the most innovative and successful providers. Children with complex needs are the most vulnerable in society and [this] commitment to ensuring their opportunities and experiences are levelled up is very welcome.”