Parents asked for views on new SEND hubs at five Lincolnshire schools
Plans to create new SEND hubs at five Lincolnshire primary schools are being put out to consultation as part of a major investment in specialist support across the county.
Lincolnshire County Council is inviting residents to share their views on proposals for hubs at schools in Market Deeping, Metheringham, Stamford, Donington and Pointon.
The hubs are designed to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within mainstream schools, offering enhanced facilities, smaller class sizes and specially trained staff.
There are already 11 SEND hubs operating across Lincolnshire, including in Lincoln, Gainsborough, Grantham and Sleaford, with a further four recently approved.
The latest proposals would see new hubs created at:
- Market Deeping Community Primary School
- Metheringham Primary School
- Stamford St George's Church of England Primary School
- The Donington Cowley Endowed Primary School
- St Gilbert of Sempringham Church of England Primary School in Pointon
The council says the aim is to help more children access specialist support closer to home while remaining part of mainstream education where appropriate.
Councillor Natalie Oliver, executive member for children's services, said many pupils with SEND can thrive in mainstream settings when the right support is available.
She said: "The new hubs will offer the best of both worlds, helping pupils realise their potential."
The proposals form part of a wider £19 million investment in SEND provision and alternative education across Lincolnshire.
Alongside the original £7 million programme, the council plans to invest an additional £2.5 million a year in SEND hubs over the next three years, plus £1.5 million annually in alternative provision.
Consultations on the latest proposals will run throughout June and July, with residents able to submit their views through the county council's online consultation platform.