Consultation - Proposed Autism (AS) Resourced Provision at Poulner Junior School

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Overview

Hampshire County Council and Poulner Junior School are seeking your views on a proposal to establish a new Resourced Provision for 12 pupils with autism, opening in phases from September 2026.

Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how individuals learn, communicate, and interact. Poulner Junior School already supports a number of autistic pupils, and this new provision will enhance the support available, helping more children access education within their local community.

Why this Provision is Needed

There is a growing number of children in the New Forest 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 12-place Resourced Provision for pupils with autism.
  • Pupils will be on roll at Poulner Junior School and supported to access mainstream education where appropriate.
  • The school will use existing surplus accommodation, with minor adjustments, safeguarding measures, external play space, IT upgrades, and furniture funded through SEN High Needs Provision capital.

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: 13 October to 17 November 2025
  • Drop-in session: Monday 20 October 2025 between 3:30pm to 6pm at Poulner Junior School
  • Next steps: Responses will be reviewed and a report will be presented to the Executive Member for Education in January 2026. If approved, a statutory notice will be published in Spring 2026.
  • A final decision will be made by the Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services / Director of Children’s Services in Spring 2026.

How to Share Your Views

We welcome feedback from parents, staff, governors, local residents, and other stakeholders. You can share your views in the following ways:

  • Attend the drop-in session on Monday 20 October 2025
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Write to:
    Claire Campling
    SEN Service Manager
    Children’s Services
    Elizabeth II Court West
    Winchester, Hampshire SO23 8UG

Please see the following link for frequently asked questions (FAQs)
FAQs for Poulner Junior School Autism (AS) Resourced Provision

All responses must be received by 17 November 2025.