Education Leaders Defy Government Offer to Cancel New Specialist Autism School
Education authorities in Worcestershire are poised to reject a substantial £5.7 million government offer that would see the cancellation of a planned specialist autism school in Malvern. Despite nationwide cuts to free school projects, local leaders remain steadfast in their commitment to delivering this crucial educational facility for south Worcestershire.
Determined Council Stands Firm on School Construction
Cabinet member for education Stephen Foster has confirmed the council's unwavering determination to proceed with constructing the specialist SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) school. This decision comes despite the Department for Education presenting the monetary alternative, which would be allocated towards expanding SEND provision within mainstream schools across the county.
During a recent children and families overview and scrutiny panel meeting, councillors learned that the anticipated opening date for the new facility faces potential delays. Originally scheduled for September 2027, the school may now open one or possibly two years later, potentially pushing completion to September 2029.
Strategic Discussions Reveal National Context
Adam Johnston, strategic director of children's services for Worcestershire County Council, revealed he held crucial discussions with Department for Education officials shortly before Christmas. He explained the broader national context, stating: "Many free schools have been cancelled across the country and regionally as well."
Mr Johnston outlined the council's position clearly: "Essentially we have a choice – continue with the build [or] cancel the build and take £5.7m. My opinion is, it would make most sense to continue with the school build but this is subject to cabinet discussion." He noted that while he received no definitive timeline from the DfE, the school might not be completed until September 2029.
Specialist Provision Takes Priority Over Funding
Cllr Foster elaborated on the council's rationale for rejecting the substantial financial offer: "It is highly unlikely, even with the delays, that we would want to take the £5.7m. The rationale is that would help increase SEND provision in mainstream schools, but we are already doing that. It is specialist SEND provision we need – and that's what this 120-place school in Malvern will give us."
The cabinet member emphasised that the project has already received approval and confirmed: "We are all but certain to continue down that route." This commitment addresses what committee chair Natalie McVey described as south Worcestershire being "a bit of a desert" regarding SEND provision.
Addressing Community Concerns and Seeking Clarity
Councillors expressed concerns about public anxiety regarding the project's future, with Cllr Seb James requesting definitive confirmation at February's cabinet meeting. When pressed for a clear answer about backing the school's continuation, Cllr Foster responded with a straightforward "yes".
The Department for Education has been approached for comment regarding this developing situation, as Worcestershire education leaders demonstrate their commitment to specialist provision despite financial incentives to cancel the project and potential construction delays.
