A PROPOSAL to expand a Dorset school and increase provision for children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities has been approved by Dorset Council’s Cabinet.

The expansion of Beaucroft Foundation School, in Wimborne, forms part of a wider £37.5m plan to provide the best education for Dorset’s children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).

In July 2021, Dorset Council’s Cabinet approved the initial proposals and budget allocation that would allow the former Wimborne First School site to be used to increase the capacity of Beaucroft School. This was then followed by a formal four-week consultation period before receiving full approval yesterday.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said: “I’m delighted that the proposed expansion of the Beaucroft Foundation School has received full support and is set to go ahead.

“This is a great opportunity to build on one of Dorset’s outstanding special schools, enabling more of Dorset’s children to receive their education closer to home, whilst reducing the need for costly independent placements. The expansion will result in up to 80 additional places for Dorset children and young people, with a particular focus on those in post-16 education.”.

The expansion will take place as part of the council's SEND Capital Strategy to create over 500 new specialist places in Dorset for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

It will allow more children to receive their education in the county and reduce some longer term costs.