Efforts to expand and improve schools for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are advancing rapidly.
St. Lawrence School in Horncastle is being redeveloped as part of a multi-million dollar investment, with the steel structure of the new building now on site.
The new school will be able to meet all needs and provide places for primary and secondary students. It will offer 17 classrooms, three of which are specifically designed for students with severe and multiple learning difficulties, equipped with lifts and sensory corners.
There will be a new hall and studios to allow the school to host restorative therapy and physical education classes, as well as therapeutic spaces for gentle play, sensory play and physical therapy. They will be complemented by areas for life skills and social recreation, as well as places for recreation and group activities. The new building will also include sanitary facilities, workspaces for staff, offices and conference rooms.
Ms Patricia Bradwell, OBE MP, Head of Children’s Services, said: “One of the Commission’s priorities is to ensure that all local children get a good start in life and a good education is vital to this. That’s why the Authority is investing about $100 million in Sterling’s Reason to Improve and Expand Lincolnshire’s Special Schools.
“Despite the challenges we have faced over the past few years, we have continued to make steady progress and have completed significant improvements, most recently in Boston, Bern, Louth and Spilsby. I am delighted with the students at Horncastle. Soon they will be able to benefit from this project too.
“The new schools will have better conditions, which means more students will be able to attend local schools instead of having to travel long distances to get an education, which is good for children and their families.”
In addition to the new blocks, the school grounds are being restructured and will be equipped with the best outdoor play areas, including sensory gardens, garden areas, playgrounds and outdoor sports equipment. Pick-up and drop-off areas and additional parking for staff and visitors will also be improved.
The new school is expected to be completed in spring 2024 by Willmott Dixon.
Executive Director Leah Mason said: “The entire school community is very excited as we see the progress being made on the new building. This construction is critical to providing a better learning environment for all students in the school through appropriate facilities. important both inside and out.
“We have worked closely with Willmott Dixon on the opportunities we have given our students in many learning opportunities and helped them gain work experience. Students have had the opportunity to apply to the school press team and have interviews and are already creating social media and interviews. They will also film this steel contract signing event.
“This is a highly anticipated and exciting development for the school, creating a much needed space for supplies and professionals, allowing us to capitalize on the opportunity to support our students in all the areas they need, all the areas they need.”
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