A LEADING campaigner for Dean Hall School has welcomed misgivings by West Gloucestershire head teachers over proposals for special needs education in the county.

"I think the head teachers are being very realistic," said Mrs Wendy Wildin, who has attended all the consultation meetings.

The heads state that while they agree with the philosophy of inclusion (integration of special needs pupils in mainstream schools) the practicalities are of great concern.

"We need to give all the children, but especially those with special needs, the best we can," they say.

"Good provision takes time, space and trained staff. Many small schools do not have the room or a room to put small groups or individuals if they have to be withdrawn from class.

"It reminds us of the need to close mental institutions some years ago. The phrase 'care in the community' came into being, and look at the problems that has caused because of lack of funds. We do not want a repeat of that scenario.

"We also feel that while there are grammar schools for the more able there should be special schools for the other end of the spectrum; it is equal opportunities after all."

The heads worry that important staff skills will be lost if special schools close and they also say there is a case for Dean Hall to continue to cater for children with learning difficulties unable to 'cope' with mainstream school.

A number of concerns have to be addressed, say the head teachers, including provision of adequate funding to tackle the resources issues of space, staff, support and materials.

Mrs Wildin said the next step was a county cabinet meeting in February to discuss the consultation findings, but she feared the LEA were set on introducing inclusion.