Student places doubled for new SEND school

A new school for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been given the go-ahead with twice the number of places than originally planned.

Secretary of State for Education Lucy Powell approved plans for the Garden Village Free School in Darlington, which will cater for students with autism spectrum disorder.

Originally designed to serve 48 pupils, the Department for Education (DfE) has agreed to double provision for 11 to 19-year-olds to meet local need.

The facility will be built on land owned by Darlington Borough Council as part of the Education Village Academy Trust (EVAT). The trust said the school would provide an "inspirational learning environment" for pupils.

About 100 staff will work in the brand new facility near Newton Lane, West Park, offering 96 places to students with autism. Plans for the school were initially approved in 2023, after a growing need was identified for specialist places in the area.

EVAT operates a number of schools and a sixth form college for pupils with additional needs in Darlington and neighbouring areas. These include Beaumont Hill Academy and Sixth Form College and Marchbank Free School.

EVAT chief executive Marie Roe said: "The Garden Village School will improve the learning experience of pupils with SEND in Darlington, many of whom have to travel great distances from home for their education.

"Having such a provision on their doorstep will build their resilience, relationships and be so much better for their life chances.

"As a Trust, our core strength is built on the expertise we have developed at Beaumont Hill and Marchbank to offer an exceptional learning experience to children who need the most support.

"It will be an inspirational learning environment that will maximise outcomes for young people, ensuring they have the right skills to benefit themselves and the town."

In 2024, the DfE announced its commitment to spending more than £105m over four years by building 15 special needs schools throughout England.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children and young people said it was "fantastic news for Darlington families".

"The new school will provide much-needed specialist places locally, reducing the need for pupils to travel and helping more young people access the support they need to succeed."

Facilities will include science laboratories, arts and ceramic studios, engineering and design technology workshops and a forest school.

The trust said pupils will be offered personalised study programmes leading to further education, training or employment.

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