(UK) New Milton: $6.1M hub for older special needs students; one wing for 'high level'

Nov 13, 2023, New Milton Advertiser: Paralympian Aaron Phipps opens £4.9million [$6.1M] hub for students with special needs at Brockenhurst College https://www.advertiserandtimes.co.uk/news/amp/paralympic-star-opens-college-s-4-9m-learning-hub-9339551/

S. England GOLD medal-winning Paralympian Aaron Phipps has officially opened a new £4.9m [$6.1M] education facility for college students with special needs. …

A college spokesperson said the hub offers “improved educational and social opportunities” for young people with special educational needs or disabilities.

The hub has two wings, each with its own dedicated garden area, with one offering Foundation Studies curriculum study areas. The other is equipped for “high-level, one-to-one support” from healthcare practitioners and learning assistants.

The building has 14 new classrooms plus social and staff space, meeting rooms and a student kitchen for learning how to prepare meals. There is also a physical therapy room and a hygiene room, both equipped with hoists, and a sensory room packed with colourful fibre optic lighting.

The Department for Education’s Post-16 Capacity Fund provided £4m in funds, while £0.9m came from Hampshire County Council’s High Needs Capital Funding.

College principal Helen Odhams said: “This hub is actually for all of us. It’s a place where we can all continue to learn about diversity, empathy and the importance of inclusion.”

Paralympian Aaron Phipps cutting the ribbon at Brockenhurst College’s education hub