New SEND School for City based at Plymouth Marjon University

Released: 07.09.26

A new school for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) will open in Derriford on the Plymouth Marjon University site.

Plymouth Marjon University has confirmed a five-year lease of the Studio School building to Elementa Education Group Ltd, a provider of specialist educational and support services.

Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, said: “At Plymouth Marjon University, we believe in high-quality, inclusive education and wellbeing support for all, and this provision will help meet a huge rise in demand.

“The number of pupils with a formal Education, Health and Care Plan (an EHCP) in the UK has more than doubled since 2015, so it is encouraging to see additional options for families locally.

“I’m delighted with the plans which reflect the University’s genuine commitment to place and social purpose and to extending opportunity and possibility for all. We look forward to welcoming the Elementa team to the Marjon site this year and to working together for the benefit of young people within the city and region.”

The school will serve as a dedicated space for innovative programs, delivered through Elmtree Learning Partnership alternative provision and Elmtree Sands SEND School for Year 6 to Year 11. Classes will be designed to enhance learning opportunities and provide tailored support for students with diverse needs through topic-based learning. With extensive emphasis on employability, unlocking students interests and career aspirations the school is focused on building students successes for the future.

Sarah Morrison, Group CEO, herself a Marjon graduate who started 25 years ago this year, said: “Having experienced Marjon as student graduating in 2004, I am excited to be adding Plymouth to our locations with a partner who shares our commitment to giving every young person the education they deserve.

“Being able to provide alternative learning provision and specialist school placements in Plymouth, supporting children across Devon, is a small contribution to the increasing needs of young people in the region.”

“By working together, we aim to strengthen community engagement and create pathways that empower learners to achieve their full potential. The partnership also provides opportunities to work with the wider university community.”

We are excited to see the building ready to start supporting young people with alternative prevision places beginning in September, ahead of the school operating once it has received Ofsted registration.