New special school to open later this year

The Government has confirmed that a new special school, Castlebridge School, will open in September 2025, operated by The Special Partnership Trust. The trust, which already runs several special schools across Cornwall and Devon, will oversee the provision of education for pupils with high-functioning Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC).
Castlebridge School will be based across two locations: a main site in Ivybridge and a smaller hub in Tavistock. The school will cater to 120 pupils aged 7 to 16 (Years 3 to 11) who are unable to attend mainstream education due to physical, medical, sensory needs, or difficulties with communication, anxiety, and behaviour.
The school is specifically designed for students who have struggled in mainstream settings, often developing school avoidance behaviours to feel safe. Many of these students have experienced setbacks in their educational progress and self-esteem, sometimes displaying challenging behaviours as a result.
Castlebridge will provide smaller class sizes and a tailored curriculum designed to support pupils in effectively engaging with their education. The curriculum will focus on developing essential skills in communication, wellbeing, and resilience while ensuring pupils achieve nationally recognised academic qualifications.
The first cohort of students will begin their education at the Tavistock satellite hub in September 2025. This site is currently undergoing significant refurbishment and will continue operating as a satellite to the main Ivybridge campus, which is set to open during the 2026/27 academic year. The Department for Education will oversee the construction of the Ivybridge facility.
Councillor Lois Samuel, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s SEND Improvement Services, welcomed the development, stating: “I am pleased that the funding agreement for a new special school in Devon has been signed. It marks a significant milestone on our journey to meet the growing demand for support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Devon.
“Castlebridge will provide children and young people with an Autism Spectrum Condition with a fantastic opportunity to access their learning and develop the confidence, skills, and knowledge necessary to progress through school and into adulthood, feeling empowered to be a valued part of their local community.
“This investment will help more children and young people in Devon who have special educational needs and disabilities achieve their full potential.”
Ruth Zimmerman, SEN Director at The Special Partnership Trust, said: “We are delighted to be working innovatively with Devon to develop and deliver additional specialist school places. Our vision is that every single young person has access to the best education they need, delivered in the best possible environment, so they can thrive, succeed, and flourish no matter what circumstances they face.
“We are immensely proud to be part of something that has the potential to transform the lives of children and young people, enabling us to be a force for good in SEN. This partnership reflects our commitment to ensuring that every child and young person receives the tailored support they need to reach their full potential.
“Through this initiative, we can continue to make a positive difference through innovation, excitement, and opportunity.”