(UK) Kingston: New autism school opens in Sept '23; 40% of SPED is autism

Mar 17, 2023, Kingston Nub News: Kingston: Borough's specialist autism school set for September 2023 opening under new plans https://kingston.nub.news/news/local-news/kingston-boroughs-specialist-autism-school-set-for-september-2023-opening-under-new-plans-176130

E. England

Kingston's new specialist school for autistic children within the borough is set to open in September 2023, however the Council has confirmed this will take place under updated plans.

National charity Ambitious about Autism and the Department of Education, had been working alongside Kingston Council to deliver the 'Spring School' in Chessington which saw building work begin in October 2022.

However, sudden news that the school's contractor had gone into administration casted a cloud of uncertainty on when residents could expect Spring School to open its doors, with its first academic year set to begin in September later this year….

Andy Nowak, Head of Spring School, said: "This development, while unexpected, is very positive and will aid us in the first year of opening, enabling us to host visits for young people and their families and undertake meaningful transition visits and work before September.

"I'm confident that the site in Norbiton will provide us with excellent temporary accommodation before we move to our permanent home….

With autism the primary need in more than 40% of children in the borough with an Education, Health and Care Plan, it is hoped Spring School will play a major role in Kingston Council's ongoing expansion of provision for children and young people with SEND.

During the first academic year, there will be places for up to 36 pupils with plans for Spring School to eventually cater for up to 90 pupils aged 4-19. …

"I have every confidence that Spring School will provide an excellent bespoke education for children and young people with autism in our borough community."