(UK) Eastleigh: Elem school to add autism unit for 12 students
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
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A specialist autism provision could be created at an Eastleigh primary school under plans aimed at increasing support for children with additional needs.
Hampshire County Council has launched a consultation on proposals to create an autism resource provision at Knightwood Primary School in Chandler’s Ford.
Under the plans, 12 places will be created to provide specialist support for children with autism who have an education, health and care plan, while allowing them to continue learning alongside other pupils in a mainstream school.
Officers say the plans are intended to help meet growing demand for specialist school places across Hampshire and ensure more children can access support closer to home.
If approved, the space would open in stages during the 2027/28 school year.
Children attending the provision would still be pupils at Knightwood Primary School. They would continue to learn with other children in mainstream classes for part of the school day, while also receiving specialist support when needed.
The council says the dedicated space would be based in existing school buildings, with some alterations and additional equipment to create a suitable learning space.
According to the consultation documents, the proposal would not increase the overall number of pupils at the school. Instead, the places would be included within the school’s existing capacity.
Parents, carers, school staff and residents are being encouraged to take part in the consultation before a decision is made.
Written responses can be submitted until July 6. Once the consultation closes, feedback will be reviewed before a report is presented to the cabinet member for education in autumn 2026.
If the plans move forward, a further statutory consultation will take place before a final decision is made in late 2026 or early 2027.
