Schools across BCP area to introduce new special needs provision this year
BCP Council is working with schools to increase the number of Specialist Inclusion Bases in mainstream schools
Four primary schools across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole will be introducing new Special Educational Needs provision this school year.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is working with schools to increase the number of Specialist Inclusion Bases in mainstream schools.
Specialist Inclusion Bases are not separate special schools, they are specialist provisions located within mainstream schools.
This work is part of a wider investment in SEND services, with more specialist provision planned across BCP in the future.
These bases will enable children with SEND needs to receive targeted support while remaining part of the school community.
Having these bases located at local schools will help more families access support and reduce the number of children having to travel outside of the BCP area for school.
New Specialist Inclusion Bases are opening at Muscliff Primary School, Bethany CE Junior School, Somerford Primary School, and Pokesdown Primary School.
In addition, Manorside Primary School is expanding its specialist provision by 10 places, helping more children get the support they need closer to home.
Existing specialist provision at Queen’s Park Infant Academy, Old Town Infant School, St. Clement’s, and St. John’s CE Infant School will become Specialist Inclusion Bases.
It is expected that the new and expanded bases will be opening during the 2025/27 school year.
Councillor Richard Burton, Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, said: “Every child deserves to feel that they belong, that they are listened to, and that they have the chance to thrive.
“When a child feels included and supported at school, it can change their life.
“It helps them build confidence, make friends, and believe in themselves.
“By expanding Specialist Inclusion Bases across BCP, more children will be able to get the support they need close to home, surrounded by the people and communities that know them best.
“This is about giving children every opportunity to succeed and helping families feel confident that their child can learn, grow, and flourish in their local community.”
The expansion is part of BCP Council’s commitment to making sure children get the right support, at the right time, and in the right place.
The expansion builds on the strong work already taking place across BCP schools.
Earlier this year, Heatherlands Primary School was recognised by the Department for Education as a National Lead School for Inclusion Bases.