New £2.3m North Northamptonshire SEND unit proposal to be discussed at next week’s Executive Meeting
12 August 2024
As part of ongoing work to boost SEND provision across the county, next week Members will be asked to approve a proposal to deliver a newly built, stand-alone special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) unit in Rushden.
If approved at the Executive meeting on Thursday 15 August, the £2,328,800 project will mean an expansion of Whitefriars Primary School by September 2025.
Whitefriars Primary School is an age 5 to 11 Primary school based in Rushden. The proposed unit would address the needs of pupils with moderate to complex needs with four classrooms, its own drop-off and pick up facilities, pathways and external play area.
The provision would be linked to the school for shared facilities like dining, PE, Science and Food Technology.
If approved the funding agreement will be finalised and the school will start the procurement process.
I welcome this proposal which would address the current deficit of SEND placements in North Northants. If the proposal is approved it would enhance inclusivity, diversity and equality for the SEND students across the area and ensure the Council is delivering Better, Brighter Futures in Line with our Corporate Plan 2021/25.Cllr Scott Edwards, Executive Member for Children, Families, Education & Skills
I very much welcome the proposal which would ensure more children and young people with SEND are given the opportunity to learn within an inclusive environment and be educated within their local community.Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council
We are absolutely committed to caring for all of our young people, providing them with a high-quality education and opportunities to help them flourish as well as safe and thriving places to live and learn.