New special needs school opens in Worcestershire

The newly opened Aurora Wilden View school has space for 76 students aged between five and 19

A new school for pupils with additional learning needs has opened in Worcestershire.

Aurora Wilden View School will take 76 students aged between five and 19 from across the West Midlands, with the majority of new pupils coming from Worcestershire.

The school's headteacher said it would fill a gap in provision, and take many children who have been out of education for a long time.

Aurora Wilden View will offer tailored support for children with social, emotional and mental health needs, including those who have obtained or are seeking an autism diagnosis.

After more than a year of preparation, the first 30 students begin their education at the school this week.

“I’m absolutely delighted to finally open the doors," said headteacher Robert McConomy.

"It will be incredible to finally see our purpose built service being used by our young people who will thrive in our caring, nurturing setting".

Mr McConomy added many of the children had been out of education for a long time.

"They may have anxiety, they may have school avoidance, they may have struggled in a mainstream environment."

With 20 acres of grounds, the new school is located just off the A449 between Hartlebury and Kidderminster.

All pupils will be able to access qualifications such as GCSEs, and it is hoped smaller class sizes and additional therapeutic support, including a resident psychologist, will enable them to settle better than in mainstream schools.

Headteacher Robert McConomy has experience at both mainstream and SEND schools

The Aurora group already operates 18 schools for pupils with additional needs across the country.

With all new pupils having education, health and care plans (EHCPs), the places were allocated by the local education authority.

Councillor Tracey Onslow, cabinet member for education at Worcestershire County Council, said: “I’m looking forward to hearing about children’s experience at Wilden View, and congratulate them on the opening of the facility."

The school's opening has also been welcomed by the Conservative MP for Worcester, Robin Walker, who chairs the House of Commons education select committee.

"I've been saying for a long time we need more provision in county. I think it's extremely welcome", he said.

"What I hear from the parents of autistic children is that they are often encouraged to be home educating because they don't feel the needs of their children are being met by the system in Worcestershire".