In  August 2023 the Department for Education invited applications from proposer groups to open a new special free school in Merton, likely to be in September 2026.

The new school should provide 120 places for children and young people aged 4-16 who have a range of moderate to severe learning difficulties and complex needs. This is likely to include behavioural needs including impulsive and unpredictable behaviour which may put other children and young people, staff and peers at risk. It may also include autism spectrum conditions or speech, language and communication needs.

The closing date was in November 2023 and we are awaiting the decision of the Secretary of State for the provider of the school, which we expect in April or May 2024.