Plans to expand SEND provision

Over the next few years, we’ll be investing more than £40 million in additional local places for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We haven't had enough suitable spaces within Wokingham Borough recently, meaning we've had to place some students further afield.

This is disruptive for them and their families because of the time spent travelling, and it's unsustainable for us due to the high costs of transport and placements with independent providers.

Funding more places within our borough is a cost-effective, lasting investment that will meet a growing need and allow more pupils to be educated near where they live, in familiar surroundings and alongside their peers.

Our aim is that every child requiring SEND support will have their needs met locally where this is the most appropriate option.

This will create more stability for us, ensuring we can still be there for many more families into the next decade and beyond.

Like all councils, we’re facing unprecedented financial challenges and must use all our resources as effectively as possible.

Offering everyone the support they need

Between 2026 and 2029, we aim to create more than 600 new SEND spaces through new and expanded specialist schools, dedicated provision within mainstream schools, and hubs for young people over 16.

This is based on the forecast number of children and young people with education, health and care plans (ECHPs) over that period, so it accounts for continuing growth in demand.

We’re expecting significant savings as independent placements cost up to five times more than our own, while fewer families will face school runs of 20 or more miles.

In some instances, where families meet specific criteria, we fund their home-to-school transport so we also expect to save in this area.

Meanwhile, our investment in new post-16 options will help shape a fairer borough by supporting the transition to adulthood and employment, promoting independence and social inclusion.

Some pupils with more complex needs will still have to be educated outside the borough, as some highly specialised settings draw from much wider catchment areas.