A new specialist centre in Petersham will provide 77 school places for local children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The new Clarendon School satellite centre has officially 'topped out', reaching its highest point in construction and marking a major milestone in expanding specialist education for children and young people with SEND in Richmond. 

The purpose-built centre will provide places for up to 77 pupils with moderate learning difficulties and complex needs, including autism – reducing the need for out-of-borough placements and helping children learn closer to home.

Speaking onsite, Councillor Gareth Roberts, leader of Richmond Council, said: "This topping-out marks a significant step forward for our borough.

"Families have told us how important it is for children with SEND to have the right support close to home, and this project will deliver exactly that – a safe and inclusive environment that will make a real difference for years to come."

(Left to right) Councillors Julia Cambridge and Gareth Roberts, alongside Clarendon School Headteacher Niall Dumigan and Kier Regional Director John Bolton (Credit Richmond Council)

The facility will include ten classrooms and four specialist teaching spaces for art, drama, music, food technology, and life skills. Pupils will also benefit from therapy rooms, group and breakout spaces, a hall, kitchen, and outdoor play, and sensory areas.

Councillor Julia Cambridge, Chair of Richmond's Education and Children's Services Committee, added: "Every child deserves an education that meets their needs and helps them succeed.

"This new centre will support pupils to reach their potential and give staff the space and resources to deliver the very best teaching and care in a welcoming, purpose-built environment."

Plans for the new centre were approved in 2023, with councillors noting it would provide local children much-needed specialist places closer to home, removing the need for long journeys across the river for their education.

The purpose-built centre will provide places for up to 77 pupils with moderate learning difficulties and complex needs, including autism (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Construction company Kier is leading the development. Sustainability is central to the design, with features including energy-efficient heating, solar panels and smart energy monitoring, and a net zero carbon operating target.

John Bolton, Regional Director at Kier Construction London & Thames Valley, said: "Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of this exceptional new and highly sustainable facility that will meet the vital need for specialist SEND education in the borough.

"We're delivering a purpose-built environment that not only supports improved educational outcomes but also sets a new benchmark for sustainability. It's a privilege to be part of a project that will have such a lasting, positive impact on local children, young people, and their families."

The new Clarendon satellite centre is due to open in Autumn 2026.

The news comes after SEND parents across Richmond and Kingston boroughs protested outside Kingston Council the failings of SEND education within the two boroughs.