A new specialist learning centre for young people with complex needs will open at Barra Hall in Hayes this September 2026, creating expanded opportunities for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), providing an ambitious, newly equipped community education asset.
Work is continuing apace to transform the building into an outstanding environment for young people.
The new provision, developed in partnership with Hillingdon Council, will provide a dedicated learning environment for young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and complex needs. The centre will support learners working at Pre-Entry, Entry Level and Entry 3, offering programmes focused on communication, independence and, where appropriate, employability skills.
A clear pathway of support and progression
Barra Hall will form part of the wider SEND and High Needs provision across HRUC, ensuring learners and families have access to a clear pathway of support and progression and sitting alongside our state-of-the-art specialist support locations at the Uxbridge, Harrow and Richmond campuses.
Dylan McTaggart, HRUC Group Principal, said, “We are all looking forward to the opening of Barra Hall – it will provide an outstanding learning environment. It will create even better opportunities for young people with special educational needs to develop confidence, independence, and the tailored support they need to grow, progress, and develop.”
HRUC continues to work closely with parents, carers, and local authorities to ensure every learner receives the support they need to thrive. Further information about transition arrangements, facilities and support services will be shared with families ahead of the September opening.
Barra Hall will be a transformative space
Students at Barra Hall will benefit from high levels of specialist support, including highly qualified SEND specialist staff, personalised learning plans and access to therapies where required. The curriculum will focus on:
- Life skills
- Communication
- Sensory learning and
- Preparation for adulthood, tailored to each learner’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes.
For learners working at Entry 3 and above, opportunities will also include supported employability and community engagement activities designed to build confidence and real-world skills.
HRUC’s Interim Assistant Principal - High Needs and Additional Learning Support, Nadia Khan, said: “Barra Hall will be a transformative space where young people with additional needs can feel safe, valued, and empowered to develop the confidence and independence needed for their future.”