More children will be able to learn in their own school with their own friends, as North Lincolnshire Council expands its specialist support in classrooms across the area.
As part of the Council Budget 2026, agreed last week, the council confirmed the accelerated rollout of Specialist Resource Provisions (SRPs) across primary and secondary schools.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for independent families (children), said: “We are transforming how children with additional and or sensory needs are supported. These children sometimes find the hustle and bustle of mainstream school overwhelming and our new units offer a solution within community school settings.
“They give the opportunity for a child to withdraw for a period of time when they need to, and to access smaller learning groups, typically less than eight children, with additional teaching staff.
“And, as they get to stay in their local school, kids can still join in with whole school activities and trips -they can have playtime with their mates, lunch with their friends and have lessons together too. This is about giving children the right support and keeping them as part of school life.”
There are currently 50 places operational across North Lincolnshire, with children already placed in settings including Brigg Primary, Castledyke, Axholme Academy and Sir John Nelthorpe.
A further 41 places have been approved to progress, with additional schemes at Alkborough, Epworth, Kirton, Holme Valley and Outwood Academy Brumby in development.
In the next year, the council aims to roll out 100 more places – building towards a total of 200 specialist places across North Lincolnshire.
Cllr Reed added: “The new spaces are calm and welcoming – a place children want to be rather than taking a child away from their friends and community connections by sending them to a special school which adds hours of travel time to their educational week.
“There will always be some children with complex needs that need a different full-time setting and our special schools remain to support those.”
Alongside specialist provision, the wider education capital programme confirmed in the budget includes:
- Expansion of school capacity where needed
- A new infant and junior school in Winterton
- Investment in maintaining and improving school buildings
- Continued development of Family Hubs
- Strengthened support for care leavers
Cllr Reed added: “We know that when children stay in their own schools, close to home, surrounded by friends and trusted adults, they thrive. Parents feel supported. Teachers feel empowered. And children grow in confidence.
“Inclusion isn’t a slogan. It’s a commitment. This budget ensures that children with additional needs are part of their community first and foremost. That’s how we raise aspirations, reduce stigma and give every child the best possible start.”
Council backs solar power at The Vale Academy for a brighter future
A big adventure. A beautiful day. We can all go on a bear hunt this summer
New nursery places in South Ferriby give more local children the best start
Inclusive, supportive, successful: Ofsted applauds North Lincolnshire’s Adult Education and Community Learning provision
From the classroom to clean energy: Carrie’s WiME story