The refurbished space located at the former Ted Webster Children’s Centre in Poole is funded by BCP Council in partnership with Linwood School will allow students to be equipped with the skills and confidence needed for life beyond school.
The funding for the skills centre is from the national education grants and is a smart investment in local provision.
The centre is costing £1.55 million and is projected to save between £1.14 million and £1.5 million annually by reducing reliance on out-of-area placements.
The Skills Centre will focus on preparing students for independent, healthy, and fulfilling lives, with young people with SEND will learn practical life skills such as woodwork and DIY at the centre.
Up to 60 specialist places will be offered, 36 will be for students continuing from Linwood’s main sire and the remaining 24 will be to meet growing local demand. The expansion ensures more young people can access tailored education and support close to home.
Specialist classrooms and a fully equipped skills flat which includes a bathroom, kitchen, and living space, provide students with hands-on opportunities to learn essential life skills. These include budgeting for weekly shopping, cooking, managing laundry and cleaning, and practicing self-care and hygiene.
Lorna Booth, both a governor of Linwood School and a parent of a young person joining the Skills Centre this term, said, “It’s been amazing to see how quickly my son Alfie has settled into the new Skills Centre. He only started a few days ago, but the difference is already clear. The former centre just wasn’t meeting the students’ needs anymore, and while change can be challenging, this move is already opening up new opportunities. Alfie is thriving – especially enjoying the new ICT facilities – and it’s giving him a real foundation for a more independent and fulfilling future.”
Gemma Talbot, Executive Headteacher of Linwood School, said, “We are excited to open the doors to our new Post-16 Skills Centre. This space has been thoughtfully designed to support our students in developing the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive in adulthood.”
Cllr Richard Burton, BCP Council Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People, said, “BCP Council is committed to investing in young people with SEND. The new Skills Centre is a vital step in improving local support and helping students build brighter futures. I am very much looking forward to visiting and seeing the difference that this great facility makes to our young people.”
