URL: https://moderngov.lambeth.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=10073

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The proposed decision is for the publication of a Statutory Notice to expand Elm Court Special School capacity by establishing a satellite setting at the former Kings Avenue School site and increasing by 60 places at the existing Elm Court site. Elm Court is a successful and highly sought-after special school for pupils aged 11 to 19 who have learning difficulties, often with associated social and communication needs, including autism. The school is currently at full capacity and continues to be the first-choice school for many SEND families in Lambeth. The Statutory Notice publication and representation period are a statutory requirement and will give community insight towards the decision for the proposal.

Content: The proposed decision is for the publication of a Statutory Notice to expand Elm Court Special School capacity by establishing a satellite setting at the former Kings Avenue School site and increasing by 60 places at the existing Elm Court site. Elm Court is a successful and highly sought-after special school for pupils aged 11 to 19 who have learning difficulties, often with associated social and communication needs, including autism. The school is currently at full capacity and continues to be the first-choice school for many SEND families in Lambeth. The Statutory Notice publication and representation period are a statutory requirement and will give community insight towards the decision for the proposal. The report outlines the background to a recommendation  to publish a statutory proposal to expand Elm Court Special School from 150 places to 210 places by establishing a satellite setting at the former Kings Avenue School site, with an anticipated implementation beginning in April 2026 with 20 pupils on the new site, and progressive implementation thereafter.   Elm Court Special School is a successful and highly sought-after special school for pupils aged 11 to 19 who have learning difficulties, often with associated social and communication needs, including autism. The school is currently at full capacity and continues to be the first-choice school for many Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) families in Lambeth.  

Date of Decision: November 12, 2025