Millions of pounds allocated to schools for SEND places

Bradford is set to gain over 22 million in funding to create 450 new places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The new places will include both specialist provisions in mainstream schools and an increase in special school capacity, according to Bradford Council.

The council collaborated with schools to determine the best locations for the additional places, using projected data to identify areas with the greatest demand. The 22.5 million initiative will be financed through the Department for Educations High Needs Capital Allocation.

A major part of the plan involves refurbishing and expanding Thompson Court, a former care facility. The council estimates a 4.5 million renovation, which will convert the site into a satellite for an existing special school, creating an additional 80 to 100 places.

In total, the scheme includes 12 projects across the district, among them a 7.5 million plan to expand Beckfoot Phoenix, High Park Special School, and relocate Bradford Alternative Provision Academy. These three projects alone are expected to add roughly 100 places for specialist and alternative education.

Sue Duffy, the councils portfolio holder for children and families, emphasized the importance of the expansion, stating it is "essential given the projected increase in the number of children with SEND." She added that officers worked closely with headteachers to identify where new places are most needed and to ensure schools can deliver high-quality education.

Author: Logan Reeves