Special schools and resourced provisions both support children with additional needs, but they do so in different ways.
Special schools are designed for pupils who need a highly adapted learning environment. Class sizes are smaller, staffing levels are higher, and the whole setting—curriculum, routines, therapies, sensory spaces—is built around meeting complex or significant needs. Children spend all of their school day in this specialist environment. Resourced provisions (RPs) sit within mainstream schools. Pupils on roll in the RP get targeted specialist support, often in a dedicated base, but they also join mainstream classes when it’s appropriate for them. This model suits children who benefit from a blend of specialist input and inclusion with their peers. A simple way to think about it:
Both aim to help children thrive; the right choice depends on the level and type of support a child needs.