ADVERTORIAL
Dedicated Unit for Visually Impaired Students at Woking High School
How a Blended Estates Strategy is Transforming SEND Provision in Surrey A
t the recent Education Estates conference, Surrey County Council presented “Modern Methods, Inclusive Futures,” a detailed look into their highly successful programme for expanding Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. Their forward-thinking strategy, which blends traditional refurbishment with Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), offers a powerful model for local authorities nationwide.
The challenge faced by Surrey is a familiar one: a rising demand for specialist SEND places that far outstrips existing capacity. This critical shortfall was resulting in a growing number of students being placed in out-of-area independent provisions. This model not only disrupted continuity of care and support but also meant that some of the most vulnerable learners were being educated far from their local communities.
In response, Programme Manager Euan Leslie, working with Surrey’s Education Department, launched its ambitious SEND and Alternative Provision (AP) Capital Programmes in 2021. Backed by a £260m investment, the programme aims to create 2,400 new, high-quality SEND and AP places by strategically expanding provision within both specialist and mainstream schools across the county. A key pillar of Surrey’s success has been the adoption of a blended estates strategy. While a significant number of new places (945) have been created through the refurbishment and extension of existing school buildings, the council has strategically embraced MMC for a large portion of its new-build projects totalling 702 places. This approach has
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www.education-today.co.uk
SEND Facility to Support Primary Pupils with Complex Social and Communication Needs at Stepgates Community School
November 2025
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