Two schools to receive more than £1.6m for special needs provisions as Sandwell Council promises to 'put the children at the heart' of decisions
Two schools in Sandwell will receive a share of £1.6m to help improve their SEND facilities.
Sandwell Council is set to invest £1.66. million to enhance the Special Education Needs and Disabilities resources at two facilities in the borough.
Ocker Hill Academy, in Tipton, and Wood Green Academy, in Wednesbury, will each receive a share of the £1.66 million pot to improve their SEND provisions, with the aim of helping more children and young people learn, grow and thrive in their communities.
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The funding will help contribute to new 'purpose-built' facilities, which will be delivered as part of the Department for Education's national School Rebuild Programme.
At Ocker Hill Academy, the existing SEND resources on offer will be expanded from 10 to 15 places, and will help to strengthen their already 'well-established' offer for pupils with social, emotional and mental-health needs (SEMH).
Councillor Jalal Uddin, Sandwell Council cabinet member for children and families, said: "This investment reflects our absolute commitment to giving every child the best start in life.
"By strengthening SEND provision at Ocker Hill and Wood Green academies, we are ensuring more children can learn in their local communities, stay close to friends and family, and access the support they need to flourish."
At Wood Green Academy, a new 20-place hub will be created, with the council saying that the new facility will add a 'vital capacity' in an area where they say there is a high demand for SEMH support.
Councillor Harnoor Bhullar, the council's cabinet member for education, said: "These improvements embody our Child Friendly Sandwell principles, putting children at the heart of decisions, making sure they feel safe and included, and helping them to achieve their ambitions.
"I am delighted that both academies and the Department for Education are fully behind this work to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where young people can thrive."
The new facilities will be designed to be 'multi-functional', allowing the schools to adapt spaces as needs change over time.
Ocker Hill Academy is set to receive £440,000, whilst Wood Green Academy will be granted £1,221,000.
The funds are expected to be released in the 2026/2027 or the 2027/2028 period.
