£450,000 transformation of former children’s centre to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

Giles Caldwell, Alder Brook headteacher said: “We’re delighted that we now have a great facility which will make a real difference to the support we are able to offer our pupils. We are sure they will enjoy and make the most of them too.”

Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead Member for Children’s and Young People’s Services said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the development of these vital facilities, which we believe will open up new possibilities for the children who use them. By creating spaces that nurture learning and growth, we hope to empower every child to reach their full potential—and, where possible, to rejoin mainstream education with confidence. This is a key part of our wider commitment to expanding SEND provision across Salford, helping children build essential life skills and enjoy a fulfilling future.”

Councillor Mishal Saeed and Councillor Tracy Kelly who represent Higher Irlam and Peel Green, said: “As local councillors, we have been committed to improving opportunities and support for our young people in every aspect of their development. These new facilities will bring a much-needed improvement to outdated facilities for our communities in Salford. We hope the planned new outdoor play area will not only enhance children’s play time but also make their learning more enjoyable and enriching.”

With Salford expanding in terms of population and economic growth, more families moving to the city results in an increasing demand for school places.
Approved on 10 June, the scheme will be funded by capital grants from the Department of Education (DfE) to renovate and refurbish Salford schools to support the increased number of pupils and help children and young people thrive in education.

As well as the facilities at Fiddlers Lane Community Primary School, the following improvements will be made:

• At Salford City Academy High School, expansions to existing buildings is planned to allow an additional two classrooms in addition to the refurbishment of existing toilet facilities to support an additional 20 year seven places.
• Plans to expand the existing dining area and improve the existing play area at The Albion Academy High School should provide the facilities for an additional 20 year seven places.
• 12 specialist provision places are planned for Peel Hall Primary School through a full adaptation of the existing teaching area.
• A three-phase expansion and remodelling plan is expected to be completed by early Spring 2026 at Little Hulton Children Centre to accommodate 24 special educational needs students.
• There is also set to be increases in school places at Belvedere Nursery, Primrose Hill Primary School and Ellesmere Park High School between September 2025 and September 2026.