Brent expands SEND support in mainstream schools

Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are set to benefit from an increase in specialist school support.

Three new developments at Newman Catholic College, Preston Park Primary School, and St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School will collectively create dozens of additional SEND places, helping to meet rising demand and ensure more children can access the support they need closer to home.

Each school has been enhanced with dedicated facilities designed specifically for pupils with additional needs, including new classrooms, sensory rooms, therapy spaces, and specialist staff areas.

Across all three sites, the expansions have also introduced improved outdoor areas, including landscaped spaces and covered learning zones, giving pupils greater opportunities for play, sensory development and outdoor education.

Like many local authorities across the UK, Brent has seen a sustained increase in demand for SEND provision. These new facilities form part of the council’s wider commitment to ensuring that children and young people with additional needs can access high-quality education within their local community, reducing the need for out-of-borough placements and strengthening inclusive education across the borough.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and School, said: “Expanding SEND provision across Brent is a vital step in ensuring that every child has access to the support they need to succeed. Supported by wider government SEND reforms, these new facilities will make a real difference to families across the borough, providing high-quality, inclusive environments where pupils feel safe, supported, and able to thrive.”

The new buildings have been designed to integrate with existing school environments while also supporting sustainability goals, incorporating modern construction methods and low-carbon materials to reduce environmental impact.
In addition to creating new learning spaces, the programme has delivered wider community benefits, including local employment opportunities and engagement with schools and colleges, helping to support both current pupils and future generations.