By Isle of Wight Observer
The IW Council has increased specialist education provision across the Island, with two former primary school sites now redeveloped to support children and young people with additional needs.
A council spokesman said the investment is aimed at helping more families access suitable provision closer to home, reducing the need for out-of-area placements and allowing pupils to stay connected to their local communities.
At the former Chillerton and Rookley Primary School site, 30 new specialist places have been created for children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The provision will operate as a satellite of Medina House School, increasing the Island’s capacity to support children with complex SEMH needs in specialist settings.
Meanwhile, the former Cowes Primary School site has been redeveloped to provide 60 specialist education places for secondary-age pupils.
Commissioned under Section 19 of the Education Act, the Cowes provision is operated by Lionheart School and is intended for children and young people who cannot attend mainstream school because of medical needs or other circumstances requiring the local authority to arrange alternative education.
The council said the new setting offers a dedicated learning environment for pupils who need tailored arrangements because of their health. While some pupils may also have special educational needs, SEN is not required for access.
Mal Butler