School praised for disability access improvements

A primary school in Malvern has been praised for improving access for pupils with physical disabilities, two years after completing major upgrades.

St Matthias CE Primary School said the changes had made it possible for children using wheelchairs to fully take part in school life.

The work was funded by Worcestershire County Council as part of a wider programme to improve accessibility in mainstream schools.

The improvements, completed in April 2024, removed barriers across the site including steps, narrow access points and a lack of suitable care facilities. New features include ramps, widened doorways, flexible classrooms and a specialist bathroom with hoist and changing equipment.

One pupil benefiting is six-year-old Dylan, who joined the school in Reception and uses a wheelchair. Staff said the changes mean he can now access all areas safely alongside his classmates.

His mother, Siani, said the school had been "outstanding in their inclusive and welcoming attitude" from the start.

"We were keen for him to go to his local school, like his sisters, but weren't sure it would be possible," she said. "With these changes, it is now possible not just for him but any children or staff who need these facilities in the future."

Head teacher Ginnie Beale said the school was proud of its inclusive approach. She said staff had worked hard to ensure all pupils could access the curriculum and wider school life.

The council invested more than £147,000 in the project, working with NHS teams and specialists from Regency High School to design the improvements.

Angela Broadbent, senior assessment teacher at Regency High School, who supported the project, said staff commitment had been key.

She said the school had embraced training and continued to build confidence in supporting pupils with additional needs.

Council leaders said the work would help more children attend their local school and support inclusive education across the county.

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