Brent Council has approved a £1 million investment to create around 50 additional specialist school places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The funding will expand Phoenix Arch Special School in Wembley by developing a new satellite site at Strathcona, offering specialist education for primary-aged children with autism, including some with learning disabilities.
The new provision is due to open in September 2027, subject to building works and final approvals, and will help more children learn closer to home. Councillor Jake Rubin said the expansion reflects the belief that every child deserves an education that meets their needs locally, allowing pupils to remain connected to their community while avoiding long daily journeys.
The project aims to ease pressure on families and reduce Brent’s reliance on out-of-borough and independent placements. It is expected to deliver about £1.05 million in annual cost avoidance once fully operational. Funding will come from the Department for Education High Needs Capital grant funding.
The decision followed a consultation held from 30 June to 27 July, which received three written responses. Support was expressed for improving local services and cutting travel times, while concerns about traffic and parking will be addressed as plans progress.
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