PLANS have been tabled for a new building to increase provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

Castleman Academy Trust has submitted a proposal to BCP Council for an outdoor learning resource centre at Broadstone Middle School.

The plan has been described as an “essential part” of a SEND capital programme at schools by the local authority.

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Work on the scheme has been carried out in conjunction with the school to meet the required needs.

A planning statement submitted by Coomber Associates Limtied on behalf of the academy trust said: “There is growing need for special educational needs and disability (SEND) capacity in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and subsequent demand for places for young people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD).

“It is important that all children and young people, whatever their background, are able to attend a good school that helps them thrive and gives them the building blocks they need to go on to fulfil their potential.

“It is especially important that the right facilities and support are in place at the school they attend, so they can learn in a modern, adaptable environment.

“This proposal will help the local authority provide targeted support to level up outcomes for some of the most vulnerable pupils.

“The current buildings on site cannot deliver this requirement using the existing floor space without impacting on education for all pupils.”

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The proposed single storey structure would be located in an existing under-utilised area of the school grounds in Dunyeats Road.

This location has been “carefully considered” to provide an area for education away from the main teaching buildings but still allow for pupils to easily integrate with mainstream education in a relaxed setting, the planning statement said.

It added: “The development will make a positive impact on the education facilities on the site. The proposal will have a positive impact on SEND pupils education and provide the essential additional space required by the Local Authority.

“The building and its external facing materials will blend homogeneously with the woodland surroundings.”

The proposal can be viewed on BCP Council’s online planning portal, with residents able to comment until April 19.