Consultation on the Proposal to Establish a New Special School for Pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) in Gwersyllt

Wrexham County Borough Council are holding a formal consultation on the proposal to establish a new special school in Gwersyllt.

Following consultation on these proposed changes, the Council will consider whether the proposal should be implemented.

This is your opportunity to ask questions and make comments that will be considered by the Council's Executive Board, who will decide how to proceed.

The formal consultation period will begin on 2nd June 2026 and will end on 16th July 2026.

Background and Rationale for Change

The Council has a strong track record for meeting a wide range of additional learning needs (ALN) with a continuum of specialist provision. Many children and young people with ALN are educated in mainstream schools. The authority continues to work with mainstream schools to be increasingly inclusive and responsive to a widening range of needs.

Over recent years, the demand for specialist school places for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN) has risen in Wrexham. A significant number of children require a more specialist setting for their learning and well-being needs to be met.

By bringing this proposal forward, the Council intends to address the rising demand for special school places. Some children present with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs meaning they struggle to manage their emotions, behaviour and social interactions. This impacts on their learning and relationships. SEMH difficulties can stem from trauma, anxiety, ADHD or other challenges. Children who present with SEMH require nurturing learning environments, support with their social skills and therapeutic interventions to help them feel safe and understood.