Sharing our satellite experience at Education Estates Conference

Our Principal, Leigh Edser, was delighted to be invited to present at the Education Estates Conference with Anna Steel, the Executive Headteacher of Latchmere Academy Trust. Together they presented the recent journey towards establishing Discovery House, the school’s third satellite provision, co-located on the site of Latchmere Primary School.

The session explored how trusts and SEND specialists can collaborating to unlock surplus space in mainstream schools and co-locate resources to create high-quality, local satellite SEND provision – quickly, safely and affordably. Drawing on a live exemplar Discovery House, the panel unpacked what it takes to deliver a co-located solutions that are targeted, inclusive and sustainable. They spoke about the delivery of the project (from due diligence to scheme approvals), the operational realities (design, zoning, safeguarding, staffing), and the conditions for success (governance, finance, community engagement). The discussion shone a spotlight on replicable models that meet needs, make better use of existing assets, and help schools stabilise budgets amid falling pupil numbers.

Leigh Edser said, “We are really enjoying working with Anna and her team. It is a great partnership that we hope will last and develop over the coming years.”

Dysart Discovery provides places for 25 primary aged pupils (Years 2-6) with a range of severe and complex learning difficulties. As part of Dysart School and OHCAT, Discovery provides safe, nurturing and highly specialist environments where pupils thrive and staff feel supported. Guided by Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and the Dysart curriculum, they ensure learning is meaningful, personalised and aspirational.

Co-location is built on a strong partnership with Latchmere Primary School, with aligned vision and values. Both schools work collaboratively to meet the needs of their respective learners; and Dysart Discovery aims to be a visible centre of excellence, modelling best practice and strengthening inclusion within the wider community. They benefit from sharing facilities such as the Sensory Room and swimming pool.

For more information click the link below

Making Space Work: rapid, sustainable SEND Provision through co-location and surplus school capacity