New SEND school to open in university

A new school for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will open on a university site.

The school, set to be based in a Plymouth Marjon University building, would serve as a dedicated space for innovative programs, project leaders said.

The university confirmed a five-year lease of the Studio School building to Elementa Education Group Ltd, with programs delivered through Elmtree Learning Partnership alternative provision and Elmtree Sands SEND School for Year 6 to Year 11.

The university said the classes would be "designed to enhance learning opportunities and provide tailored support for students with diverse needs through topic-based learning."

University vice-chancellor and chief executive Prof Claire Taylor said: "We believe in high-quality, inclusive education and wellbeing support for all, and this provision will help meet a huge rise in demand.

"The number of pupils with a formal education, health and care plan (EHCP) in the UK has more than doubled since 2015, so it is encouraging to see additional options for families locally.

"I'm delighted with the plans which reflect the University's genuine commitment to place and social purpose and to extending opportunity and possibility for all."

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