We were really pleased to receive such a significant and thoughtful response to the recent consultation on the proposal to close the SLCN provision at Little Ridge from September 2027. Since the consultation closed, we have taken time to carefully consider each response, and you can view a summary of the consultation report below. We wanted to share the next steps with you ahead of the summer break.
As outlined in the consultation letters, we reluctantly proposed this closure due to changing local demand for places. In response to this changing need, ESCC has informed us that it intends to establish new specialist bases attached to mainstream schools for pupils with a range of special educational needs and disabilities. Planning for these is expected to begin in the autumn term, with the first new provisions proposed to open in 2027/28.
Given the strength of feeling expressed through the consultation and whilst new specialist bases are being planned for, we do not believe it would be appropriate to proceed with closure plans for September 2027.
Our intention is still to close our SLCN provision (subject to DfE consideration and approval of the significant change proposals), but to phase this over a longer period. We need to finalise the details of this with ESCC but can confirm that closure would happen no earlier than September 2028. We will write again in the autumn term with an update, ahead of submitting proposals to DfE for their consideration.
The consultation highlighted the strong support that many families have for the Little Ridge SLCN provision and the positive impact it has had on pupils over many years. Once a decision has been reached on the long-term future of the current provision, we will continue to review how best to meet the needs of all our pupils in line with developments in national policy and inclusive practice.
We wish you all a restful summer break and look forward to seeing you in September.