A BASINGSTOKE school has opened its new, refurbished premises after being awarded Independent Special School status.

Inclusion School, part of the wider Inclusion Hampshire organisation, welcomed students to its new premises on Wednesday, September 7.

The larger site, combined with the accreditation of Independent Special School status, means that the organisation is now able to support even more young people with social, emotional and mental health needs.

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This includes students with high anxiety, school phobia, depression, suicidal ideation and other complex needs such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and pathological demand avoidance (PDA).

The move to independent school status means that the team will now be able to provide an enhanced service more in line with the mainstream secondary school day, whilst continuing to support and nurture positive mental health and well-being.

Head of Inclusion School, Matthew Atkinson, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for us at Inclusion.

“Our independent school status along with a move to a new, larger site means we are able to offer so much more to our learners.

“This includes an expanded timetable with science facilities, outdoor space, well-being rooms, communal areas, kitchen for cooking and cafeteria.

“Although we can now offer a greater and more diverse timetable, the promotion of positive mental health and well-being remains at the heart of our curriculum, supported by our dedicated team of tutors.

“The past three years have been incredibly difficult for young people, with the impact of a pandemic, lockdown and a complete disruption to their educational, social and family lives only just beginning to be realised.

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“This coupled with the growing financial issues faced by families and the pressures on existing mental health services means young people are facing more stressors than ever before.  

“The need for mental health and well-being support as an integral part of the curriculum and culture of a school environment is absolutely vital.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome our learners to our new school and look forward to seeing them flourish and grow in this environment.”

More information about Inclusion School can be found on its website inclusionschool.org.uk.