Proposal to establish an Autism Resourced Provision (RP) at The Henry Cort Community College

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Overview

Hampshire County Council and The Henry Cort Community College, is seeking your views on a proposal to create a new Resourced Provision (RP) for up to 15 pupils with autism (AS), opening in phases from academic year 2027/28.

Children with autism often experience challenges with social interaction, communication, and may have speech and language needs. This new provision will enable pupils to access specialist support closer to home, while maintaining links with mainstream education.

Why are these provisions needed

There is a growing number of children in the area being diagnosed with autism, and the need for specialist educational support is increasing. This proposal aims to support this by creating a dedicated space within the school for pupils with complex needs who have Education Health Care (EHC) Plans to be placed by the County Council’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) Team.

What is being proposed

  • A 15‑place Resourced Provision for pupils with autism
  • Pupils will be on roll at The Henry Cort Community College
  • Pupils will be supported to access mainstream classes where appropriate, alongside time in the Resourced Provision for targeted individual or small‑group support
  • The provision will open in phases in the 2027/28 academic year
  • Specific classroom spaces are required as a base for the Resourced Provision and additional spaces have been designed into the new school accommodation to provide specialist internal and external spaces.

Impact on the school

  • Pupils in the Resourced Provision will receive tailored support and spend time in both mainstream classes and the provision space.
  • The provision will enhance inclusion and wellbeing across the school.
  • Staff will benefit from additional training and shared expertise.
  • The school will receive additional funding to support staffing and resources.

Consultation Timeline

  • Consultation period: 22 June to 20 July
  • Drop-in session: Monday 13 July, 3:30pm to 6pm at The Henry Cort Community College (at the current school site PO15 6PH)
  • Next steps: Responses will be reviewed and a report presented to the Executive Member for Education in autumn 2026. If approved, a statutory notice will be published in autumn 2026, with a final decision expected in late autumn 2026 / early spring 2027.

How to Share Your Views

You can share your views in the following ways:

  • Attend the drop-in session on Monday 13 July (at the current school site PO15 6PH)
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Write to:
    Helen Ley
    SEN Partnership Development Manager
    Children’s Services
    Elizabeth II Court North
    Winchester, Hampshire SO23 8UG

Please see the following link for frequently asked questions (FAQs)
FAQs for the Henry Cort Community College AS RP

All responses must be received by 20 July 2026.