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Birmingham City Council Approves Baskerville School Redevelopment to Boost SEND Places

Council decisions target autism support and wider special educational needs capacity through new schools and targeted training and reading programmes.

By Birmingham News Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Birmingham is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

Birmingham City Council has approved major redevelopment plans for Baskerville School to add specialist education places for pupils with autism amid a desperate need for SEND capacity. The council also plans to open two new special free schools from September 2027, projected to deliver a combined 520 additional places for children with special educational needs.

Addressing SEND Capacity Through School Redevelopment

The approval for Baskerville School redevelopment focuses on expanding specialist provision for autism. This step forms part of wider council efforts to increase places for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The two new special free schools scheduled to open in September 2027 are expected to provide the 520 additional places referenced in council announcements.

Free SEND Training for Early Years Professionals and Families

Free online SEND training worth £500 remains available to Early Years professionals, parents and carers across Birmingham until 30 June 2026 through Dingley's Promise. The programme offers targeted professional development at no cost during the stated period, supporting those working directly with young children who have special educational needs.

Fully Funded Climate Education Workshops for Primary Schools

Climate Ed is offering five fully funded climate education workshops for Birmingham primary schools in Years 5 and 6 for the 2026-27 academic year. Sessions are scheduled for the autumn and spring terms, providing schools with structured opportunities to incorporate climate topics without additional cost.

Expanded One-to-One Reading Support from September 2026

Chapter One is expanding its free one-to-one reading support for Years 1-3 pupils in Birmingham schools from September 2026. The programme will prioritise schools with higher-than-average Pupil Premium levels, extending access to additional literacy assistance for younger pupils.

These initiatives reflect ongoing council and partner actions to strengthen local education services. Early Years professionals, parents and carers can register for the Dingley's Promise training before the 30 June 2026 deadline, while primary schools may contact Climate Ed regarding the five funded workshops. Schools interested in the Chapter One reading support can prepare applications ahead of the September 2026 rollout.