PLANS are in place to open a new school designed for pupils with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties.
Members of Central Bedfordshire Council have shown their support for proposals to set up an alternative provision ‘free school’ in the area.
The new school – which would be based partly at the former Roecroft Lower site in Stotfold – would have places for up to 140 youngsters.
It would be dedicated to improving outcomes for pupils who might otherwise be excluded from school or who need extra individual support.
The plans, which have been submitted by the Department for Education were developed by a consortium of all 10 upper schools in Central Beds.
They are also being supported by representatives from middle schools and Central Beds Council.
The council has given its strong backing to the bid by providing funding and two of its existing buildings for development.
A second school building will be located in Dunstable.
Councillor Mark Versallion, executive member for children’s services at Central Beds Council said: “I am hopeful that the bid will be successful. We feel it is a very strong proposal, which is supportive of current Government policy.
“We have shown our strong support for the bid by providing the funding for the current pupil referral unit and two sites to accommodate the new school.
“It is a demonstration of our commitment as a council and that of both upper and middle schools to raise standards and ensure the very best educational opportunities for some of the most vulnerable pupils in Central Bedfordshire.”
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