Swindon expands SEND provision with 20 new school places

Twenty students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) have begun the academic year at new schools, thanks to newly-created places at two Swindon primaries.

With the support of Swindon Borough Council, Eldene Nursery and Primary School and Robert Le Kyng Primary School are both now able to provide SEND support to children in their mainstream settings. The places were created following a £3.4m grant, which was allocated to the Council by the Department for Education in February.

The funding has enabled the creation of eight new places at Eldene and 12 at Robert Le Kyng, marking a significant step forward in inclusive education across the Borough.

In total, the additional funding is expected to support the creation of up to 158 new SEND places for children and young people across Swindon. The Council is continuing to work with schools to expand and repurpose existing sites, while identifying opportunities for further new places. This follows the successful creation of 60 new SEND places in September 2024.

The new places are part of a wider initiative to improve access to high-quality SEND provision, ensuring that children with a range of needs can receive the tailored support they deserve in inclusive, nurturing environments. Expanded provision is also due to be introduced later this year at both Mountford Manor Primary and Oaktree Nursery and Primary School.

Councillor Adorabelle Amaral-Shaikh, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to see the expansion of SEND provision at both Eldene Primary School and Robert Le Kyng, with 20 new specialist places that will make a real difference for local families.

“As Swindon continues to grow, so too must our investment in specialist provision. This expansion is being delivered as part of our ongoing mission to build a fairer Swindon, where every child has the opportunity to thrive and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these new places will have on children, families and the wider school community.”

Susan Smith, Headteacher at Robert Le Kyng Primary School, said, “It has been lovely to see the children enter The Huddle relaxed, happy and therefore ready to learn. The communication and friendly environment, along with the high adult to child ratio, allows the children to make their wants and needs known in their chosen manner.”