Aug 10, 2023, Rotherham Advertiser: Rowan Centre's £442,000 [$560K] refurb to meet growing demand https://www.rotherhamadvertiser.co.uk/news/view,rowan-centres-442000-refurb-to-meet-growing-demand_46185.htm
N. England
A FORMER pupil referral unit is set for a £442,000 refurb before it reopens to help meet demand for special school places….
That left the Rowan mothballed, as expressions of interest were invited from Rotherham Council from providers to keep the building within the educational sector.
Nexus Multi Academy Trust was picked as the chosen partner out of three bids for the building, and now the newly-renamed Forest View will open with 50 places in September.
It will act as a satellite site to Nexus’ Hilltop and Kelford special schools, freeing up 25 places each in Maltby and Kimberworth respectively.
Cllr Victoria Cusworth, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “I am really pleased that plans are being put forward to reopen the Rowan Centre, creating much needed additional special educational needs placements.
“It is crucial that all students receive the high-quality education they deserve, and that this is delivered in the right environment to suit their individual needs.”
Statistics show that 20.4 per cent of pupils have special educational needs compared to the England average of 18.2. …
On Monday (7), cabinet members approved the Rowan centre’s new use.
Cllr Cusworth said: “Here in Rotherham a fifth of our pupils are registered as having special educational needs, so it is vital we make sure they are catered for so they can live their best lives and reach their full potential….
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