Somerset Council has stepped in with nearly £1.5 million in additional funding to prevent the closure of Hill View School, a newly opened special needs school catering to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Operated by the Oak Partnership Trust, Hill View is located in Ash near Yeovil and was established to address the shortage of SEND places in local mainstream schools.
Despite opening its doors in September 2024 after significant delays, Hill View has faced ongoing challenges including construction defects and lower than expected pupil enrollment. Originally funded directly by the Department for Education (DfE), the support provided has not been sufficient to overcome serious issues such as water ingress, faulty security gates, broken door fastenings, improperly installed fencing, and staff shortages. These problems have led to classroom closures and disrupted learning, adversely affecting the pupils.
The DfE has committed £684,000 for urgent building repairs, but the Oak Partnership Trust projects a financial deficit nearing £868,000 by the end of the 2024/25 academic year. Without an increase in student numbers and funding, the trust could be forced to return control of the school to the DfE to avoid bankruptcy.
READ MORE: Somerset’s 37 Sports and Social Club to Make Way for Modern Community Hub and Hotel Near Gigafactory
READ MORE: £750m Transport Investment Could Herald the Return of Trams to Bath
To prevent potential closure and further disruption, Somerset Council approved an injection of £1,433,000 from its Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) high needs block on June 4, 2025. This sum includes £353,000 to support ongoing operational costs at Hill View, backdated to September 2024, and £1,080,000 to cover education costs for 20 SEND pupils attending alternative sites.
Ian Robinson, CEO of the Oak Partnership Trust, emphasized the importance of investing in these vulnerable children, many of whom face complex trauma and exclusion. He called for continued collaboration and sustainable funding to ensure the school can fulfill its mission.
Council officials expressed frustration with the DfE’s role in the situation. Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts criticized the government’s failures, stating it is unacceptable that the council must compensate for these mistakes, which disrupt not only education but also families’ lives. Concerns were also raised about the financial strain on the council, which could face an unprecedented DSG deficit surpassing £100 million. The government’s existing DSG statutory override, designed to help local authorities manage deficits without declaring bankruptcy, is due to expire in March 2026, heightening the urgency of a solution.
The Hill View situation underscores broader issues with SEND provision and funding in Somerset and the need for government accountability. The council remains committed to supporting these children and ensuring the school remains a vital resource for the community.