Devon colleges and council partner to improve SEND education

Colleges across Devon are joining forces with Devon County Council to significantly expand post-16 educational options for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Colleges across Devon are joining forces with Devon County Council to significantly expand post-16 educational options for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Through a multi-million-pound grant from the Department for Education (DfE) and additional support from DCC, Exeter College, along with PETROC College’s campuses in Barnstaple and Tiverton, will introduce at least 350 new places dedicated to supporting students with SEND.

This initiative aims to provide more tailored educational pathways for hundreds of young people, ensuring they receive the resources and guidance needed for their educational and personal development. The new facilities planned for Exeter, Barnstaple, and Tiverton will include purpose-built, inclusive learning spaces specifically designed to accommodate a diverse range of additional needs. These spaces are intended to foster a supportive environment where students with SEND can thrive and gain the skills they need for their futures.

The specific courses and programs that will be offered at each location are currently under review by the colleges. Once finalized, these offerings will cater to various abilities and interests, reflecting the commitment of both the colleges and DCC to enhance SEND support across the region. Further details on these programs are expected to be released in the coming months, signalling a new era of inclusive education in Devon.