Lincolnshire County Council has unveiled a plan to enhance educational opportunities for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The initiative aims to establish an additional 40 classrooms annually in mainstream schools across the county. This approach is designed to enable hundreds more students to remain in local schools rather than transferring to specialized institutions.
The pressing need for this expansion stems from the current situation where special needs schools in Lincolnshire are operating at full capacity. The council has reported a staggering deficit of £22 million over its annual SEND budget. By creating more SEND classrooms within mainstream schools, the council anticipates significant cost savings while allowing children to stay within their communities.
Details of the SEND Classroom Initiative
Each new SEND classroom will accommodate up to 13 children, with a maximum of two dedicated rooms per school. While these classrooms will follow distinct curriculums tailored to the needs of SEND students, they will still facilitate participation in the broader school environment. The council estimates that, over the next three years, this strategy could generate approximately 400 new placements annually.
The regions of South Kesteven and South Holland are expected to receive the bulk of these new classrooms, given their higher demand. Conversely, areas such as Lincoln, West Lindsey, and Boston are projected to have lower needs.
The council’s Executive approved this strategic plan during a meeting on November 4, 2023. Reform leader Councillor Sean Matthews emphasized the benefits of this approach, stating, “It’s proven that if you keep a child in mainstream schools, the outcomes for them are much better.” He further noted that the plan would minimize unnecessary expenditures, such as transporting children to special needs schools outside the area.
Future Plans for SEND Support
In addition to the classrooms, the council is exploring the possibility of repurposing existing buildings to create specialized post-16 education opportunities. Among the locations under consideration are the Horncastle Business Centre, the Vista in Spalding, and the Mary Knox Centre in Lincoln.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and better educational outcomes for children with SEND in Lincolnshire. Earlier this year, the council approved the establishment of 13 SEND rooms in primary schools and secondary academies throughout the county, marking a significant step towards enhancing local educational support.
As preparations move forward, the council aims to ensure that children with special educational needs can thrive in their communities, receiving the education and support necessary for their development.
