Home / Education / Hartlepool Tackles SEND Crisis Head-On
Hartlepool Tackles SEND Crisis Head-On
7 Feb
Summary
- Hartlepool faces record numbers of children needing special educational support.
- Expansion of existing educational facilities is under consideration.
- Early intervention is deemed crucial for optimal student outcomes.
Hartlepool Council is actively seeking solutions to meet the growing demand for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The town is currently experiencing a record number of students requiring such support, putting a strain on existing provisions.
Several measures are being considered by council chiefs, including the potential expansion of Catcote Academy, Springwell School, and Hartlepool College of Further Education. Additionally, the council is evaluating a partnership with an external provider to enhance support for young people with autism spectrum disorder and complex behavioral needs.
This initiative prioritizes early intervention to ensure students can be educated within Hartlepool. The council awaits the national SEND White Paper, anticipating capital funding for 2026-2029 to support these crucial developments. If funding is insufficient, schemes will be prioritized based on need, demand, and cost-efficiency.
