Improvements Implemented at Special Needs School Facility

A headteacher has stated that the refurbishment of a £1 million school facility, designed for children with physical disabilities, is expected to improve the well-being of its students. Construction is underway for a new outdoor area at the Keevill Unit, located within Speenhamland School in Newbury, Berkshire. This space will feature a sensory outdoor classroom, a track accessible to wheelchairs, and a designated “story throne” zone. Headteacher Julie Lewry commented, “The new provision will encourage our pupils to spend more time outdoors which in turn will enhance their well-being.” She further added that it would “promote their physical development with a range of activities designed to increase cardiac fitness”. The unit, established in 1973, bears the name of Don Keevill, who previously served as a deputy head at the school. In 2024, West Berkshire Council allocated £860,000 for the renovation of an existing building on the school premises. This renovation created two new classrooms, an outdoor learning area, an accessible toilet, and a hoist for children with physical disabilities. The facility was formally inaugurated by paralympian Louise Sugden, an alumna of both Speenhamland and Keevill, known for competing in wheelchair basketball and powerlifting. This more recent outdoor initiative carries a cost of £151,000, with completion anticipated in early 2025. Its official opening will be conducted by former student Andy Stevenson, currently employed as a TV presenter and radio reporter. Stevenson stated, “When my parents moved to Berkshire in the mid-80s because of my Dad’s job, the reason they settled in the Newbury area was almost entirely because they were so keen on me going to school at Speenhamland and benefitting from the brilliant Keevill Unit. “It was such an important, happy time in my life and I owe everyone connected with the Keevill Unit such a lot.” Heather Codling, who oversees children and family services at the council, remarked, “I can’t wait to see this outdoor space completed so that pupils can enjoy wonderful learning environments both inside and out. “It goes without saying that the Keevill Unit does amazing work and that their students are incredibly inspiring. “Louise and Andy are testament to what can be achieved, and without a doubt, great education delivered in a great environment is what every child deserves.” For updates, BBC Berkshire can be followed on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.