A new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) school in Devon has officially opened its doors.

The facility was delivered over a £4 million project which saw the former Charlton Lodge care home in Tiverton transformed to make way for the new school.

Morgan Sindall Construction completed the ACE Tiverton Special School under the management of NPS South West on behalf of Devon County Council.

The school was designed as an innovative, co-educational 'free school', to offer children high-quality care and education while meeting a growing demand for SEND places in the region. It will cater for 70 pupils aged 11 to 16 with a range of SEND requirements.

The first intake of students were welcomed in September.


Paul Cockram, area lead and operations manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: "We are delighted to have delivered this project for Devon County Council, which will help to meet the growing requirement for SEND school places in the region.

"ACE Tiverton Special School will build a supportive learning community that encompasses parents, carers and the wider families of children who attend, allowing children to thrive in an enriching environment."

James McInnes, Devon County Council's Cabinet member for schools, added: "Devon County Council has invested £4.5 million into this new special school and I am delighted that the young people and all the staff are so pleased with the facilities we have been able to provide. The new school will provide high-quality care and education for the growing number of children in our county who have special educational needs, closer to their homes and families.
 It means we can look after these children in a Devon school rather than relying on expensive private and independent provision. That's important for them and their families. It's also an important investment by Devon County Council because our budget for children with high needs is under intense pressure."

An official opening ceremony was held at the school on 29 November.

(CM/MH)