Blackboard with Approved written on it with calculator and plant next to it
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Increased places for special education on the Isle of Wight approved by cabinet

Plans to turn an empty former primary school into a satellite site for an Isle of Wight special school went one step further yesterday evening (Thursday).

The Alliance administration agreed to publish public notices for an increase in SEND provision across the Island.

The plans include increasing places at Medina House School from 138 places to 168, with 30 places being provided at the site of the former Chillerton and Rookley Primary School.

Consultation voted through
At yesterday’s cabinet meeting, members voted unanimously to go ahead with a consultation on expanding Isle of Wight SEND provision, which will begin on 2nd May 2025.

It is hoped the plans will take effect from September, the start of the next academic year.

Cabinet member for children’s services and education Claire Critchison said the proposed expansion would “go some way” to meet the “changing requirements” of the Island’s education system.


This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed