Consultation

The Chalfonts Community College, with the support of our Governing Board and Buckinghamshire Council, is seeking the views of parents, carers, and the wider community on a proposed change to our current Additional Resource Provision (ARP).

We are proposing to redesignate our Physical Disabilities (PD) ARP into a Unit for Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, specifically to support students experiencing Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA).

Why the change?

• Falling demand for PD ARP: Over recent years, there has been a significant decline in the number of students requiring ARP provision for physical disabilities. In fact, there are currently no PD ARP students enrolled.

• Improved local access: More schools across Buckinghamshire are now adapted for physical accessibility, allowing children with physical disabilities to attend their local mainstream school and benefit from being part of their community.

Why an SEMH Unit?

• Rising SEMH needs: In contrast, there has been a sharp increase in students with EHCPs for SEMH needs, including a concerning rise in Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA).

• Local demand: Buckinghamshire Council recognises an urgent need for more SEMH provision within the county to support these students effectively.

What’s proposed?

• The new SEMH Unit would open in Autumn Term 2025, initially supporting up to 8 students.

• Pupils would be accommodated in a repurposed space within the school while plans are developed for a purpose-built facility, expected by September 2027, subject to planning approval.

• Once complete, the new facility would allow the unit to expand to 18 students.

We welcome feedback from our school community and stakeholders as we look to better meet the evolving needs of students in Buckinghamshire.