The decision, made by the county council's Cabinet on Wednesday 4 November 2026, will see the creation of four new SEND Units in mainstream schools and a new satellite provision for Colnbrook Special School.
The four new SEND Units will create 88 specialist places. These include a 12-place unit at St Mary's Infants' School in Baldock, a 16-place unit at Shenley Primary School in Radlett, a 36-place unit at Hitchin Boys' School in Hitchin, and a 24-place unit at Ralph Sadleir School in Ware. These units aim to improve inclusion and outcomes for children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) by providing specialist support within their local school community.
Additionally, over £3 million will fund the extension of the age range and enlargement of Colnbrook Special School with a satellite provision at Woodhall Primary School. This expansion will create an extra 40 places for children and young people with severe learning difficulties.
These developments are part of Hertfordshire County Council's SEND Provision Plan, which aims to increase specialist capacity in mainstream schools, special schools, and post-16 settings to ensure more young people receive the right support close to home.
“"Every child deserves to feel included, supported, and able to thrive in education close to their home. We’re building a more flexible system, so children get the right support, at the right time, in the right setting. SEND Units are an important part of that approach, providing specialist support within mainstream schools, while our plans for Colnbrook's satellite provision will increase capacity for children and young people whose needs require a higher level of specialist support. Together, these plans developments will strengthen the range of support available for children with SEND across the county."
Councillor Mark Watkin, Executive Member for Education, SEND and Inclusion, stated that the plans strengthen the support available across the county. He highlighted that SEND Units provide specialist support within mainstream schools, while the Colnbrook satellite provision will increase capacity for those with higher specialist needs.
Mrs Melidoro, Headteacher of Morgans Primary School in Hertford, shared her positive experience with a newly opened SEND Unit, noting that children have settled in well and are integrated into school life, including lessons and social activities.
