A NEW special school is set to open its doors in a matter of months.

Huckleberry Primary Therapeutic School will open in Wantage in early June, offering places to children aged five to 11 who have social, emotional and mental health difficulties.

The school will focus on a ‘highly therapeutic offering’, helping pupils to progress into mainstream or SEN (special educational needs) secondary education.

Many of the children at the school will have additional special needs, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit and hyperactive disorders, which may affect their speech and language development.

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Headteacher Ludivine Parmentier said: “I am thrilled to be opening the school in Wantage, where I grew up.

“It is set in beautiful surroundings with access to local facilities.

“We understand that for some children, school has been difficult and we have adapted our curriculum and environment to help their confidence grow.

“Developing a love for learning through different means is vital for the pupils’ futures, and the culture and approach of the school will be to encourage this, to support every child to reach their full potential.

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“Staff will get to know the children well and be committed to providing an environment that is nurturing, safe and enriching, and tailored to the individual’s needs.

“The school opens in early June and has been exceptionally well received within the local area.

“We are keen to be part of the wider community, work with local businesses and organisations, and provide the vulnerable children in our care with the best possible start to their education journey.”

The school will come under the umbrella of Calcot Services for Children (CSfC), which provides residential care and education for children.

Rachel Redgwell, managing director of Calcot Services for Children

Rachel Redgwell, managing director of Calcot Services for Children

Rachel Redgwell, managing director of CSfC said: “Offering accessibility to education for all children is something we are passionate about, whether it is our own looked after children or those who have struggled to find schools that meet their needs.

“This is so important to improve and enhance their life chances and I am very proud that Huckleberry will shortly be opening.”