Moulsecoomb Primary and West Blatchington Primary and Nursery School, both part of The Pioneer Academy, were visited by Dame Kate Dethridge, regional director for the South East at the Department for Education (DfE).
She was joined by Paul Schofield, deputy director.
Dame Kate Dethridge, regional director for the South East (Department for Education), said: “I had a lovely day visiting two of the Trust’s schools, hearing about the improvements that have been made at the schools and seeing the great provision in place for children with additional needs.
“We had a very warm and enthusiastic welcome from the CEO, staff and especially from the children, who were an absolute credit to their schools.”
West Blatchington already operates an established SEND unit
Moulsecoomb will open a new unit in January 2026.
Amy Myers, Head of School at Moulsecoomb, with Dame Kate Dethridge and pupils. (Image: The Pioneer Academy)
The visitors toured Moulsecoomb’s sensory room, activity room and outdoor learning spaces.
Mr Schofield said: “It was a pleasure to spend a day visiting West Blatchington Primary and Moulsecoomb Primary, seeing the very real and positive impact that their inclusive approach is having for children with additional needs.
“Thanks to Lee, Russell and Amy and their teams for all of the great work they are doing to ensure the best possible outcomes all of the children in their care.”
The Pioneer Academy aims to have specialist SEND units in 11 of its 22 schools by March 2026.
The trust is also working with Brighton and Hove City Council to develop further SEND provision across the region.
Lee Mason-Ellis OBE, CEO at The Pioneer Academy, said: “Ensuring that local children can access their local schools has always been a big part of the mission for us at The Pioneer Academy, so we have prioritised funding specialist resources and specialist training and recruitment.
“Our facilities help support all the children as they continue their learning journey. We are delighted with the results and we look forward to welcoming more pupils and their families next year.”
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