(UK) Surrey: Elem school opens "speech, language, communication base"

Oct 9, 2025, Wolverhampton.gov: Celebrations as expanded Resource Base opens at Palmers Cross 

https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/news/celebrations-expanded-resource-base-opens-palmers-cross

Staff and pupils at Palmers Cross Primary School are celebrating the official opening of their newly expanded Speech, Language and Communication Resource Base.

Previously housed in 2 temporary classrooms deemed no longer fit for purpose, the school's original Resource Base supported 16 pupils.

Now, thanks to partnership working between the Elston Hall Learning Trust and the City of Wolverhampton Council, the school has a new, purpose built facility which can accommodate up to 30 pupils, doubling its capacity and enhancing the learning environment for children with additional needs.

Headteacher Dan Nicholls said: “We are extremely pleased with our new speech and language resource base at Palmers Cross Primary School.  . . .

The expansion comes in response to rising demand for specialist school places. Wolverhampton has seen a 48% increase in pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) over the past 5 years – from 1,244 in April 2019 to 2,956 in April 2024 – with speech, language and communication the most common primary need among these pupils. . . .

Consultation is also currently underway on proposals for a new Resource Base at Stow Heath Primary School.

The plans for the revamped facility at Palmers Cross were approved by councillors last year, and it opened to pupils at the start of this autumn term.. . .

"As a council, we have a statutory duty to ensure sufficient school places, and that every child has access to the right education in the right setting. This new facility not only meets growing demand but also reinforces our commitment to inclusive education and supporting families within their local communities.”