Primary school’s specialist speech unit could close

A unit providing specialist language and speech therapy to young children in Spalding could close.

The unit at Monkshouse Primary School is one of three across the county which may be lost in a review of the best way to support youngsters with language and speech problems.
The three units – including one in Mablethorpe and another in Lincoln – currently cost Lincolnshire County Council more than half a million pounds.
A large proportion of the cost – more than £125,000 – is on providing transport for the children from all across the county to their nearest unit.
Under the proposals being consulted on, the needs of the children currently using the units would be met in mainstream schools by an enhanced outreach service.
The unit at Monkshouse has spaces for 12 children, but currently only has eight on roll, while Mablethorpe can cater for ten but only has seven at present, and Lincoln can take 12 but currently has six.
Most of the children who are supported by the units are in reception and years one and two, although they can be supported until year six when they move onto secondary education if necessary.
The duration of time the child spends attending the units varies depending upon individual needs and can range from a period of six months to a number of years.
A county council consultation document on the proposed changes said: “Not all children with identified complex speech and/or language difficulties are placed within the units.
“In fact some parents and carers object to this and support is then provided in the local community primary school.
“Many of our primary schools are successful in supporting children with these complex needs without having to refer to a specialist unit.
“The review of this provision has taken into account the need to meet children’s needs as much as possible within a mainstream setting.
“In addition the recommendations promoting inclusion for children within their local community and their local school, the proposal ensures more localised provision reducing unnecessary travel.”
The consultation with headteachers and parents ends tomorrow.
If the closure goes ahead, staff at the units could be transferred to the Local Authorities Specialist Teaching service.