Why Inclusion Bases Are Rising Up the School Agenda
Schools across the UK are facing growing pressure on space, support services and specialist provision. Ageing buildings, rising pupil numbers and increasing SEND demand are all adding to that challenge.
The latest figures show that 14.2% of pupils in England receive SEN support and 5.3% have an education, health and care plan, meaning around 1 in 5 pupils now have identified special educational needs.
At the same time, the government has set out an expectation that, over time, every secondary school will have an inclusion base, alongside equivalent provision in primary schools locally.
For schools, that creates a clear need for high-quality specialist spaces that can be delivered quickly, cost-effectively and in a way that genuinely suits the site.
What is an inclusion base?
An inclusion base is a dedicated space within a mainstream school that provides targeted support for pupils who need additional help, whether for focused learning, intervention work, pastoral support or quieter teaching environments. Government guidance describes inclusion bases as part of a wider move towards more inclusive mainstream education.
Why demand is growing
Many schools are trying to respond to rising levels of need while working within existing buildings that were never designed for this level of flexibility or specialist support. In many cases, there is simply not enough suitable space on site.
That is why modular inclusion spaces are attracting attention. They give schools a practical way to add dedicated provision without waiting for long traditional build programmes or compromising existing teaching areas.
A more flexible way to deliver specialist space
At BGR Modular Classrooms, we believe schools need more than standard off-the-shelf solutions. Every site is different, and every school uses space in its own way.
Our on-site build approach allows us to create bespoke classrooms and inclusion spaces that are shaped around the school, rather than around transport restrictions or fixed unit sizes. That means greater flexibility for layout, site fit and long-term use.
Because our buildings are constructed on site, there is also greater opportunity for collaboration during the build. Regular stakeholder input helps ensure the finished space reflects the practical needs of the school.
Why this matters for schools
A well-designed inclusion base can help a school:
create dedicated space for support and intervention
improve the learning environment for pupils with additional needs
reduce pressure on existing classrooms and shared areas
respond more confidently to changing inclusion requirements
add specialist provision without compromising the wider site
Looking ahead
Inclusion is becoming a bigger part of how schools plan buildings, budgets and long-term provision. As expectations continue to shift, schools will need practical ways to deliver specialist space quickly and with confidence.
That is why inclusion bases are likely to become an increasingly important part of the conversation.
If your school is planning additional SEND or inclusion provision, talk to BGR Modular Classrooms about a tailored modular solution designed around your site and your pupils.