A NEW unit designed to give tailored support to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been officially opened at Watchet’s Knights Templar Community Church School and hailed as an exciting milestone in the school’s commitment to inclusive education.

The unit, to be known as the Den, will cater for children with significant cognitive and learning delays, with a particular focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

A school spokesperson said the specialist provision would reduce the need for families to seek support outside the local area, ensuring that children can remain at the heart of their community while accessing high-quality, personalised education.

It will also offer a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where learners with education, health and care plans (EHCPs) can flourish both academically and socially.

The spokesperson said: “The new unit includes a dedicated classroom designed for small-group teaching, a specially created outdoor learning space, and access to the school’s swimming pool and extensive wildlife area.

“Every detail has been carefully considered to meet children’s communication, sensory, social, and emotional needs, providing both the structure and flexibility that enable every learner to succeed.”

Headteacher Laura Weaver said: “Knights Templar’s inclusive ethos and provision for SEND were highlighted as a considerable strength during our most recent Ofsted inspection.

“We are therefore thrilled to officially open the Den which stands as a reflection of our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of all learners.

“This new provision strikes the right balance of support and challenge, allowing children to build confidence, grow in independence, and achieve their full potential, while remaining an integral part of their local community.”

Chair of governors Linda Bulpin said: “We are incredibly proud to launch this much-needed provision at Knights Templar.

“The Den represents more than just a specialist classroom, it is a place where children will feel understood, valued, and fully included in school life.

“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in an environment where their unique strengths are recognised and nurtured.

“This unit will not only support children in developing essential life skills but also help them to discover joy in learning, build positive relationships, and take their next steps with confidence.

“It is a privilege to be part of a school community that continues to place inclusivity and care at the very heart of its vision.”

Developed in partnership with Somerset Council and a team of specialist professionals, the Den will support children currently attending Knights Templar as well as others from across the local area who meet the criteria for specialist SEND provision.

Announcing the opening of the Den, the school said the new facility reflected Knights Templar’s vision of inclusive education, ensuring that every child, regardless of background or ability, had access to the resources, expertise, and care they need to achieve their best.

For further information or to arrange a visit, contact Knights Templar headteacher Laura Weaver by emailing [email protected] or calling 01984 634385.