SEND campus officially unveiled in Swindon
The ribbon cutting ceremony happened yesterday (11 December)
The ribbon-cutting ceremony has officially taken place at a brand-new school for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
The Links Campus teaches children and young people who require varying levels of support through the opening of the 35 new places.
Based at UTC Swindon in Bristol Street, the satellite school opened its doors in September but was yesterday given its official unveiling.
It's part of the council's mission to ensure young people are given dedicated specialist support throughout their education.
Councillor Adorabelle Amaral-Shaikh, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “The work at Churchward School is a fantastic example of how young people can thrive given the right support and learning environment. I enjoyed hearing first hand from the young people about how the new Links Campus is making a real difference to them.
“We know that more school places are needed, which is why we will continue to use additional funding secured earlier this year to develop plans for a new special school for Swindon.
“This work is part of our mission to build a fairer and better Swindon, and I know the work of Council staff and local schools will mean our young people will have access to all the opportunities and support they need to lead happy and healthy lives.”
Dave Dearsley, Headteacher at Churchward School, said: “The pressure for places at Churchward School is growing year on year. Having opened in 2018 with 20 students we now have 125 students on roll and the demand continues to far exceed the places available. Working with the local authority and UTC Swindon we have been able to grow again this academic year to meet some of this demand.
"This is an excellent opportunity for students at Churchward School to develop links with mainstream peers as they continue their journey towards becoming independent learners.
"Churchward School’s unique approach has been so successful that 90 per cent of students are ready to move into a less specialist environment ahead of time, with students leaving Churchward School and successfully transitioning into mainstream school or college, apprenticeships and work.
"I know that the partnership we are building with UTC will provide additional opportunities for our students to achieve their full potential and become active members of the community.”