(UK) Christchurch: Elem school to add 16 place autism unit
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A new specialist provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs at a school in Christchurch will be introduced from April.
Somerford Primary School will have a new 16 place specialist provision for pupils with an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) who have needs relating to Social, Emotional, and Mental Health or Autism.
A report to cabinet suggests that the provision will combine a mainstream school environment with tailored specialist support, which will enable pupils with EHCPs to access high-quality education.
The growing number of young people with an EHCP has placed significant pressure on existing specialist placements. In Christchurch the lack of local specialist places has meant the pupils are having to travel considerable distances or are being placed us of areas. The new provision at Somerford Primary School will strengthen local inclusion and reduce reliance on high-cost placements.
Pupils attending the Provision will remain part of their mainstream class and wider school community, with additional support provided through a dedicated base on site which will be created by surplus classrooms. The base will offer a structured environment for therapeutic input, small‑group teaching, regulation support and targeted interventions.
Access to a sensory room and designated outdoor space will also be provided.
It is expected that provisions places will be phased in gradually throughout 2026.. . .
Members unanimously approved the plans to establish a new specialist provision in Christchurch.
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