Tonbridge, Kent – Kent County Council (KCC) has officially approved more than £7.1 million in funding to support the expansion of Nexus Foundation Special School, a major step forward in meeting the rising demand for special educational needs provision in the county.
The investment will fund the construction of new, purpose-built facilities at the Tonbridge-based school, which caters for children and young people with profound, severe, and complex learning difficulties. The expansion includes the addition of four general classrooms, a specialist science room, calm spaces, hygiene suites, and accessible toilets—all carefully designed to support the physical and sensory needs of its pupils.
A Milestone for SEND Provision in Kent
Beverley Fordham, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, welcomed the decision, describing it as a “milestone” in the council’s ongoing efforts to improve education provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
“This investment is a milestone in our ongoing commitment to ensuring every child in Kent has access to high-quality, inclusive education,” said Ms. Fordham.
“Having visited Nexus School recently, I was able to see firsthand how the expansion will not only provide much-needed places for pupils with profound and complex needs, but also create a learning environment that truly supports their development and wellbeing.”
The new facilities are designed in line with Department for Education guidance, ensuring the spaces are not only functional but adapted to the evolving needs of pupils with SEND. A planning application for the project has been submitted, with construction expected to begin in early 2026—subject to approval—and completion aimed for within the same academic year.
Phased Growth to Meet Growing Demand
This marks the second phase of expansion at Nexus Foundation Special School, following KCC’s initial decision in July 2024 to permanently expand the school from 228 to 330 places.
The first phase, which has already been completed, delivered a new dining area and additional staff accommodation. The second phase is set to ensure Nexus can accommodate more students long-term, eliminating the current reliance on temporary adaptations of shared spaces.
The expansion comes in response to a sharp increase in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) across the county, reflecting growing demand for specialist education provision. Nexus remains the only special school of its kind in Tonbridge, making this development especially critical for local families.
A Welcome Announcement for School Leadership
Scott Jarred, Head Teacher at Nexus School, expressed his gratitude for the council’s support and spoke of the importance of the upcoming work.
“We were delighted to hear the recent announcement from KCC confirming investment in the next phase of building work and expansion at Nexus Foundation Special School in Tonbridge,” said Mr. Jarred.
“Since opening in 2017, the school has continued to grow, and—reflecting national trends—demand for places remains high as we support children and young people with profound, severe, and complex needs (PSCN).
“Our student population is becoming increasingly complex, and the creation of additional classrooms will provide much-needed learning spaces, both indoors and outdoors, ensuring that pupils can thrive in environments designed to meet their needs.”
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