Consultation: Resource Provision at Furness Academy

About This Proposal

Furness Education Trust, in partnership with the local authority (Westmorland and Furness Council), is proposing to establish a 20-place resource provision at Furness Academy for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) who require specialist support for emotional based school avoidance (EBSA). 

What is a Resource Provision?

The resource provision will provide a dedicated specialist department within Furness Academy where students can access targeted support while remaining part of our mainstream school community. 

Emotional Based School Avoidance (EBSA) refers to difficulties attending school due to emotional factors such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, neurodivergence-related challenges, or other mental health needs. It differs from truancy because the absence is driven by emotional distress rather than a desire to avoid education.

Students will benefit from:

• Access to specialist teaching and therapy within the resource provision
• A supportive environment tailored to their needs
• Specialist staff trained in EBSA interventions
• Students will receive a personalised programme combining small-group teaching, therapeutic interventions, attendance support and family engagement

Who Will the Provision Support?

This resource provision is designed for students who:

• Have an existing EHCP 
• Would benefit from specialist support
• Are either currently within Furness Education Trust schools or will be commissioned by the local authority

Places will be allocated through a fair and transparent process, working closely with the local authority to ensure students receive the right support in the right setting.

Partnership Approach

This development represents a collaborative effort between Furness Education Trust and the local authority to:

• Increase local specialist provision for students with EBSA
• Reduce the need for students to travel long distances to access appropriate support
• Strengthen our inclusive offer across the trust
• Ensure students can remain connected to their local community

Have Your Say

We value the views of our school community, parents, staff, and local stakeholders. This consultation period gives you the opportunity to:

• Learn more about the proposed resource provision
• Ask questions about how it will work
• Share your thoughts and feedback
• Help shape the final plans

How to Respond

Consultation closes: Monday 13th July

You can share your views by:

• Emailing: info@furnesseducationtrust.co.uk
• Attending our consultation event: 4pm-4.30pm, Monday 6th July 2026, Furness Academy 

What Happens Next?

Following the consultation period, we will:

1. Review all feedback received
2. Finalise plans in partnership with the local authority
3. Share outcomes with our community
4. Begin the process of establishing the resource provision

For more information or questions about this proposal, please contact info@furnesseducationtrust.co.uk

Note: This proposal aligns with our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring every child can access the support they need to thrive.