Plans progress for SEND inclusion centre at St George’s primary
Plans to provide an ‘inclusion centre’ for SEND pupils are progressing at St George’s Primary School.
Portsmouth City Council has agreed to ask the public whether to establish an inclusion centre for primary-aged pupils.
Inclusion centres provide specialist education places for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The council commissions specialist places, delivered on the sites of mainstream schools, providing opportunities for inclusion between SEND and mainstream pupils.
The centre would establish 32 places for children whose primary area of need is cognition and learning, from reception to year 6.
A phased opening is planned, with an ambition to open to an initial 16 pupils in September 2026, moving to the full 32 pupils by September 2028.
Consultation plans will include letters to stakeholders and the Diocese, and there will also be communication with parents and staff within the school.
Councillor Tom Coles described the centre as a “great idea” and said he was impressed with the school’s approach to SEND during his time as Lord Mayor.
Cllr Russell Simpson also welcomed the proposals and said that inclusion in the north of the city has “always paid off”.
Cabinet member for education, Cllr Nick Dorrington said he thought it was a “fantastic proposal” and that it was wise for the council to consult those directly affected by the scheme.
He added that “anything that brings more provisions for inclusion in this city should be widely appreciated”.
The deadline for the consultation is March 25, with the final decision expected in June.