Plans to expand provision for pupils with Additional Learning Needs

A major programme of investment to expand specialist education provision for pupils with additional learning needs has been approved by Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet.

The plans form part of a long-term strategy to address rising demand for specialist placements, reduce reliance on costly out-of-county provision and ensure children can access the support they need closer to home.

A report to Cabinet set out how the demand for specialist provision has increased significantly in recent years.

The first phase of the programme includes the development of a new specialist education centre for learners with neurodivergent and emotionally-based school avoidance profiles, at the former Ysgol Croes Atti building in Flint. Managed by Plas Derwen PRU, the facility will accommodate approximately 80 learners, as well as providing outreach support and interventions for children in mainstream settings.

Cabinet also approved the creation of a new on-site inclusion centre at Ysgol Treffynnon. The purpose-built modular hub will provide a flexible environment for pupils requiring additional support, specialist interventions and help to access learning.

It is envisaged that more of these centres will be created at other secondary schools as part of a later phase of the programme.

In addition, a new satellite provision under the leadership of Ysgol Pen Coch will be created to help address increasing demand for specialist primary school places, with 27 children currently on the school’s waiting list. This will be co-located on the site of a mainstream primary school, with a number of shortlisted sites currently being explored.

Cabinet also agreed to continue developing proposals to expand capacity at both Ysgol Pen Coch and Ysgol Maes Hyfryd specialist schools. Feasibility work will explore options including expanding the existing school buildings, constructing new buildings on the current sites, or developing a new all-through school on a different site.

The Council has secured Welsh Government funding of £1.5m towards the Ysgol Treffynnon inclusion centre, and a further £1.5m towards the £5m redevelopment of the Ysgol Croes Atti building.

Councillor Mared Eastwood, Cabinet Member for Education, Welsh Language, Culture and Leisure, said:

“These proposals represent a significant investment in specialist education and will ensure Flintshire is well-placed to meet current and future demand.

“By creating new facilities and increasing capacity within our existing specialist schools, we will be able to support more learners closer to home, reduce waiting times for places and provide the high-quality, modern environments our pupils deserve.”