Proposal to Increase School Places for Children with SEND

Tameside Executive Cabinet have approved a proposal for consultation to commence on 12 additional specialist centres within mainstream schools for children and young people with special education needs and disabilities (SEND), with the aim of increasing the number of places available within the borough in time for the new school year.

The Council is committed to ensuring that children across the borough can have a school place as close to home as possible which is able to meet their learning needs. The plan will increase the number of dedicated SEND places available within Tameside by 143 and will support pupils aged between 5–16 years old with education and health care plans (EHCPs). The plans included a proposal to make up to 40 additional places available for pupils aged 16-19, with Newbridge Multi-Academy Trust extending the provision at Samuel Laycock School to 11-19 years old.

Changes will take place over two phases, with the first beginning in September 2025 for the first 12 schools and a second phase for a similar number of schools being planned for September 2026.

The places will provide tailored support for pupils with cognition and learning, communication and interaction, and social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, Councillor Leanne Feeley said: “The proposal which has been agreed to consult on the development of 12 additional specialist centres across the borough is really positive news and will help meet the increased need for school places for children with EHCPs. Creating 143 places in mainstream schools will ensure access to high-quality education within an inclusive environment and as close to home as possible.

“These proposals will reduce the need for families to travel by providing the dedicated support children and young people need in their communities.”