A new specialist resource provision (RSP), Hive@Healing, officially opened its doors at Healing Academy. The first secondary provision of its kind marked a significant milestone in inclusive education for North East Lincolnshire.
The opening event was attended by dignitaries including the Mayoress of North East Lincolnshire, Janet Goodwin, alongside teachers, senior leaders, families, and most importantly, the children who will benefit from the new provision. The Hive@Healing, which is funded through the High Needs Capital Grant from the Department for Education, will be managed by North East Lincolnshire Council and delivered by teaching and support staff from Healing Academy, part of the Harbour Learning Trust.
A resource specialist provision is a dedicated educational setting within a mainstream school that provides tailored support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It offers a more personalised learning environment, with specialist staff, adapted facilities, and resources designed to meet individual needs – while still allowing students to be part of the wider school community and attend 70% of their mainstream lessons. The Hive is part of a wider Council project to create 100 places over the next 3 years for children with additional needs across the borough.
Stephen Logan, Headteacher at Healing Academy, welcomed guests and shared his thoughts on the vision behind The Hive@Healing, He said:
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created here. Our young people have been at the heart of every decision. This space has been designed to meet their needs, support their growth, and help them thrive both in education and in life.”
Currently supporting six students, The Hive will eventually expand to accommodate twelve. The provision is housed in a thoughtfully refurbished former music block, transformed into a vibrant and nurturing environment tailored to the needs of its learners.
The Mayoress officially opened the provision with help from students and staff, with James, a student at Healing Academy, given the honour of cutting the ribbon.
The Hive@Healing features:
- A fully functioning kitchen where students are encouraged to cook, bake, and learn essential life skills.
- A sensory room.
- Two spacious classrooms with breakout areas.
- An outdoor space designed to support individual learning and wellbeing.
The event also highlighted the impact the provision is already having on families. Kerrie, a parent of one of the students, said:
“My daughter started in The Hive in September. This is the first time I’ve fully seen it – it is absolutely amazing. We feel blessed she has a place here. She wants to get up and come to school and learn. She has her moments like all children, but the staff one-to-ones she has are fabulous and they give her the time to self-regulate. It’s been a gamechanger for my family.”
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder for Children and Education at North East Lincolnshire Council, reflected on the significance of the provision. She said:
“The Hive is already making a real difference in the lives of the children who attend, and it’s wonderful to see how much it means to their families. This is more than just a building – it’s a safe, nurturing space where young people can grow, learn, and thrive. As the provision expands, even more students will benefit from the tailored support and opportunities it offers. These kinds of specialist settings are vital, and I’m proud we’re working in partnership to ensure every child has the chance to succeed.”
Admissions follow the national process for children with EHCPs as outlined in the SEND Code of Practice. We ask that families do not make direct contact with Healing Secondary Academy, unless they have been informed of an active consultation for their child.
Share this article