Potens has gained approval to increase the number of SEN pupils utilising Arbour Hosue school to a total of 60 across two school sites. This culminates many months of careful restoration and modification of Maen, a former gentleman’s residence located off Culliford Road North, Dorchester.
Arbour House School is a Special Education Needs (SEN) School, opened in 2017. It is registered to support pupils who are 6-18 years old and who have additional learning needs and disabilities. The school provides bespoke learning packages of specialist education to children and young people who may not have thrived successfully in other environments, focusing on the pupil’s learning and development across a range of life domains.
Nicki Stadames, Chief Operating Officer of Potens and Chair of Governors of Arbour House, said:
The development of our Education provision at Arbour House School, including the purchase and renovation of Maen, has been a labour of love and determination by so many. I feel so incredibly proud of all that has been achieved by those involved in the vision and the sheer staying power that has been required to bring this to life.
I can’t wait to see how the two sites develop and transform the lives of our young people and colleagues.”
Julie Perks, Headteacher of Arbour House School, said:
“Our new school site, Maen, is a truly inspirational building that I believe is perfect for our school’s continued growth. Our new site is homely, welcoming, and safe, a place for young people to grow, explore and be themselves. Whilst Maen has not been a family home for some time, it still breathes life, laughter, and ‘family’ in the very fabric of its walls. We know that our new school site will offer a sense of stability, peace and belonging for all the children who learn here.”
