Southend-on-Sea Unveils Three New Autism Resource Bases
We were pleased to recently attend the official opening of three new Autism Resource Bases (ARBs) at Blenheim Primary School, Thorpedene Primary School and Shoeburyness High School. These new provisions mark an important step forward in strengthening SEND support across Southend.
The ARBs have been purpose-built to provide specialist support for children with autism within a mainstream school environment. They offer calm, supportive spaces where children can access tailored help, while also having opportunities to learn and socialise alongside their peers in mainstream settings. This approach helps combine specialist provision with inclusion, supporting both learning and wellbeing.
It’s encouraging to see continued investment in local SEND services, particularly provision that allows more children and young people to receive the support they need closer to home. For many families, being able to access specialist education locally can make a real difference to daily life, routines and outcomes.
As a Parent Carer Forum, we welcome these positive developments and recognise the importance of expanding specialist support within mainstream schools. We look forward to continuing to work alongside families, schools and the local authority to ensure children and young people with SEND are supported to thrive.
