A new Post 16 Skills Centre has opened in Poole to support young people with special educational needs and disabilities in developing vital life skills for adulthood.
The Linwood Post 16 Skills Centre, based at the former Ted Webster Children’s Centre, is funded by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council in partnership with Linwood School. The refurbished site will provide up to sixty specialist places, with thirty-six for students continuing from Linwood’s main site and twenty-four new places to meet growing demand locally.
Designed to prepare students for independent, healthy, and fulfilling lives, the centre features specialist classrooms and a fully equipped skills flat with a bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Students will have the chance to learn skills such as budgeting, cooking, managing laundry, cleaning, and maintaining personal hygiene in a supportive environment.
Governor and parent Lorna Booth said her son Alfie has already benefited since joining. She said the move has given him “a real foundation for a more independent and fulfilling future”.
Executive Headteacher Gemma Talbot said: “This space has been thoughtfully designed to support our students in developing the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive in adulthood.”
The £1.55 million project, funded through national education grants, is expected to save between £1.14 million and £1.5 million a year by reducing reliance on out-of-area placements.
Councillor Richard Burton, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People, said the new centre “is a vital step in improving local support and helping students build brighter futures.”
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