Cabinet has approved the expansion of provision for children and young people with SEND (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) needs located at Kendray Resource Centre which will see 16 extra places created and refurbishment of the current site.

The existing provision supports up to 20 secondary school-age pupils (key stages 3 and 4) with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs.

The building belongs to the council and is currently occupied by Wellspring Trust. Cabinet has approved granting a new lease and investment to refurbish the building so an additional 16 places can be created.

Growing this provision supports the council’s priority for Learning Barnsley, by making sure children and young people have access to a placement which best meets their needs closer to home.

Cllr Trevor Cave, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “We call Barnsley the Place of Possibilities, a place that fosters and grows ambition, enabling everyone to be the best they can be.

“We must provide our children and young people an educational setting which best meets their needs, and wherever possible we want to do that right here in Barnsley.”

Temporary accommodation during the refurbishment works will be required. Parents and carers of the pupils affected by the refurbishment works, and those granted the additional places at the Kendray Resource Centre, will be kept informed of the changes and when they take effect.