Court Fields School in Wellington is considering the addition of a second special needs unit following a recent public consultation. Located on Mantle Street, the school is part of the Blackdown Education Partnership (BEP), a multi-academy trust that also includes Orchard Grove Primary in Taunton and Holyrood Academy in Chard.
Currently, Court Fields offers tailored education through its Cove provision, designed to support students facing anxiety-related challenges. The new proposal focuses on expanding specialist support by transforming Block E, known as “The Bungalow,” into a dedicated unit catering to up to eight Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
This new unit aims to provide a nurturing environment specifically for students with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, including those experiencing internalizing behaviors such as anxiety or depression, along with neurodivergent children. The approach combines specialist teaching with supported access to mainstream classes, fostering inclusion while addressing individual needs.
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The environment within the unit is designed to be low-sensory and predictable, integrating face-to-face instruction, online learning, and gradual reintegration into mainstream lessons where suitable. This initiative aligns with Somerset Council’s SEND strategy and the national SEND white paper published earlier this year.
Court Fields’ headteacher, Polly Matthews, expressed enthusiasm about the proposal: “This is an incredibly exciting development for Court Fields School and our wider community. Building on the success of Cove, this additional SEND unit will enable us to better meet the complex needs of young people locally.”
Beyond increasing local access to specialist education, the unit will support early intervention, potentially reducing dependence on costly and distant specialist placements outside Somerset.
Community members, including parents and carers, are encouraged to participate in the consultation at www.bep.ac or via email at [email protected] before June 1. Following the consultation, the trust will review feedback and make a final decision. Should they move forward, approval will then be sought from Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP. The timeline for implementation remains uncertain pending final approval.