More SEND hubs to be sited at Lincolnshire schools
Five more new hubs for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are to be created at primary schools in Lincolnshire.
People are now being invited to share their views on the plans to create the new hubs in five mainstream schools.
Lincolnshire County Council says there are already hubs opened at 11 schools across the county, including in Lincoln, Gainsborough, Grantham and Sleaford, offering additional, much-needed SEND places. Plans have also recently been approved for new hubs at four other council-maintained schools.
During June and July, there will be a series of consultations on proposals for further new hubs at: Metheringham Primary School, The Donington Cowley Endowed Primary School, St Gilbert of Sempringham Church of England Primary School, Pointon, Market Deeping Community Primary School and Stamford St George's Church of England Aided Primary School.
Coun Natalie Oliver, executive member for children’s services said: “Ensuring all children get a good education is a priority for the council. To help achieve that, we’re creating a network of hubs in local schools for young people with SEND.
“We know that many pupils with SEND will thrive in a mainstream school and leave with better outcomes, as long as they receive that extra support they need. The new hubs will offer the best of both worlds, helping pupils realise their potential.
“These new hubs will build upon the ones that have already been announced, offering additional, much-needed SEND places. However, our long-term ambition is to develop hubs in as many schools and academies as possible, meaning all children can get the support they need within their local community.
“Initially, we’d earmarked £7m for these improvements, but we now plan to go even further. So, we’ll be investing an additional £2.5m per year over the next three years into SEND hubs, plus a further £1.5m per year for alternative provision over the same period. That adds up to an incredible £19m investment.”
Each hub will offer enhanced facilities, smaller class sizes and specially-trained staff. There are also some additional places to allow the hubs to provide extra support for mainstream pupils on a temporary basis.
For further details on the consultations, including the specific dates during which you can take part, visit www.letstalk.lincolnshire.gov.uk