Council plans to increase SEND school places

Derby City Council is planning to increase the number of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) places at one of its schools.

SEND places at Kingsmead School should be increased from 110 to 180 due to high demand, the authority said.

The Alvaston school provides education for pupils with social, emotional and mental health difficulties.

A report will be presented to the city council's cabinet on 13 November.

Council bosses say providing SEND places within the city works out cheaper than sending children to schools outside the area.

Figures show it could save up to £1.9m a year, with places at schools outside of the city costing "more than double".

In the 2023-24 financial year, the council spent more than £18m on out of area placements due to insufficient provision in the city.

If the plan is approved, the school will have to wait until Castle School - its sister centre - fully moves into its new building.

The council approved the purchase of a new building in August but it is not expected to be fully operational until September 2025.

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