Schools
Special school expands to offer more places in Walsall
Published on
A Walsall special school has opened a new satellite site.
Old Hall School, on Bentley Lane, Walsall, opened its new site, ‘The Nest’ in Darlaston on 25 February 2025.
The Nest will provide specialist Early Years and Key Stage 1 provision for over 40 children with severe learning disabilities and complex Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC).
The council has supported the transformation of a disused nursery into a new, inclusive learning environment.
The investment reflects both the council’s and school’s commitment to expand the number of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities places in Walsall.
The Nest is home to four purpose-built classrooms, two sensory rooms, a dedicated wellbeing room, outdoor spaces for each class, as well as playgrounds and a forest school area.
Matt Ball, Headteacher of Old Hall School, said, "The launch of The Nest is an important milestone for our school and the wider community. We are delighted to extend our specialist support to even more children, ensuring they have the best foundation for their education in a setting which is tailored to their needs. We have always said we want to do as much as we can for Walsall families, and this is another successful step in that process."
Suzanne Davies, Head of School at Old Hall School and The Nest, added, "We have created an environment that mirrors the main site, where children flourish, feel safe, and develop at their own pace. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, friendly environment, with specialist teaching and care. The Nest is designed to be a place where children can enjoy the very best start to their education and early life."
“ Demand for special school places is rising. In Walsall, we want to provide places locally for our children and families, so it’s brilliant to hear about The Nest’s development.
Old Hall School is already providing an amazing education to its pupils, and only recently, have been graded ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in every single available category.
The Nest will build upon this amazing work and will holistically support children’s education around their specific needs, in order for them to thrive and be happy.
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The Nest’s opening has already been well-received by the school community. One parent shared how reassured they felt knowing their child will receive the very best support and education there, due to its affiliation with Old Hall.
For more information about The Nest and Old Hall School, please visit www.oldhallschool.co.uk.
ENDS
Background information
In March 2024, Walsall Council approved £18.6 million of funding to create more special educational needs school places in the borough.
The background of this can be found here: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/newsroom/cabinet-asked-approve-ps186-million-fund-more-special-educational-needs-school-places
