Consultation: Resource Provision at Walney School

About This Proposal

Furness Education Trust, in partnership with the local authority (Westmorland and Furness Council), is proposing to establish a 25-place resource provision at Walney School for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) who require specialist support for speech and language needs.

What is a Resource Provision?

The resource provision will provide a dedicated specialist department within Walney School where students can access targeted speech and language support while remaining part of our mainstream school community. Students will benefit from:

• Access to specialist teaching and therapy within the resource provision
• Continued participation in mainstream lessons alongside their peers
• A supportive environment tailored to their communication needs
• Specialist staff trained in speech and language interventions

Who Will the Provision Support?

This resource provision is designed for students who:

• Have an existing EHCP identifying speech and language as a primary need
• Would benefit from specialist support while accessing mainstream education
• Are either currently within Furness Education Trust schools or will be commissioned by the local authority

Places will be allocated through a fair and transparent process, working closely with the local authority to ensure students receive the right support in the right setting.

Partnership Approach

This development represents a collaborative effort between Furness Education Trust and the local authority to:

• Increase local specialist provision for students with speech and language needs
• Reduce the need for students to travel long distances to access appropriate support
• Strengthen our inclusive offer across the trust
• Ensure students can remain connected to their local community

Have Your Say

We value the views of our school community, parents, staff, and local stakeholders. This consultation period gives you the opportunity to:

• Learn more about the proposed resource provision
• Ask questions about how it will work
• Share your thoughts and feedback
• Help shape the final plans

How to Respond

Consultation closes: Monday 8^th June

You can share your views by:

• Emailing: info@furnesseducationtrust.co.uk
• Attending our consultation event: 4pm-4.30pm, Monday 1^st June 2026, Walney School Innovation Centre

What Happens Next?

Following the consultation period, we will:

1. Review all feedback received
2. Finalise plans in partnership with the local authority
3. Share outcomes with our community
4. Begin the process of establishing the resource provision

For more information or questions about this proposal, please contact info@furnesseducationtrust.co.uk

Note: This proposal aligns with our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring every child can access the support they need to thrive.