Island School Plans 50% Expansion Of SEND Places

Island residents are being invited to give feedback on plans to expand Lionheart School, increasing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) places from 120 to 180.

The consultation, open until 19 December, covers proposals to provide additional places for children with complex mental health needs, including high anxiety, at the former Cowes Primary School site from September 2026.

Speaking at last week’s council meeting, Ashley Whittaker, Isle of Wight Council’s director of children’s services, said the expansion aligns with the Island’s Education Strategy, which aims to ensure all children, including those with SEND, have high-quality provision and strong outcomes.

Councillors welcomed the plans.

Cllr Paul Fuller described the expansion as “a step in the right direction” for supporting SEND children on the Island, while Cllr Paul Brading, chair of the council’s children’s services committee, praised Lionheart School and its headteacher, Andrew Hatherley, for the school’s work so far.

Residents can read the full consultation and submit feedback online at: Isle of Wight SEND Consultation.