(UK) W. Sussex: Special school to add 60 'much needed' places; "significant rise in demand"
- The end of childhood
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
June 15, 2025, The Argus: Plans to expand Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School
SE England
Plans to expand a special school have been unveiled.
The proposals would see up to 60 new places created at the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham, which supports children and young people aged two to 19 with severe, profound, and multiple learning difficulties.
The expansion would be delivered by repurposing Arun House, a district council-owned facility located just over a mile from the school.
Councillor Jacquie Russell, West Sussex County Council's cabinet member for children, young people, and learning, said: "The proposals to expand Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School offer the chance to create much-needed additional school places for children and young people with SEND, and I encourage residents to take part in the consultation.
"The need for SEND provision continues to grow both here and nationally and I know families have concerns about the support available for their children.
"We are taking action to address the issues and finding new ways to ensure that children and young people get the help they need in order to achieve their full potential. . . .
West Sussex has seen a significant rise in demand for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision in recent years, with the number of education, health and care plans (EHCPs) increasing year on year.
While most children with EHCPs are supported in mainstream schools, some require the specialist care and resources provided by dedicated special schools.
Residents are being encouraged to share their views through an online consultation, which will remain open until July 7.
The council hopes the additional capacity will help meet growing demand and provide more children with the opportunity to access specialist education closer to home.
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