Plans to extend the age range of a school for deaf children in St Albans has been backed by county councillors.

Heathlands School, on Heathlands Drive, currently has pupils aged between three and 16.

But the school has drawn-up plans to take children up to the age of 18 from September 2024.

On Monday, May 15, the plans were backed by a meeting of the county council’s cabinet.

Presenting the proposal, executive member for education, libraries and lifelong learning Cllr Terry Douris said Heathlands was "an outstanding school for deaf children".

He described the work with children who have hearing impairments as both "astounding" and "amazing".

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He pointed to the positive responses to the public consultation – which included no objections – and said that he ‘wholeheartedly’ supported the plan.

Also speaking in support of the proposal was executive member for children, young people and families Cllr Fiona Thomson.

“This is really pleasing to hear – especially no objections to a proposal from a school to extend provision for their students,” she said.

“I think this is really good news and I am pleased to support it.”

Leader of the council Cllr Richard Roberts said: “The reputation of Heathlands extends beyond Hertfordshire and it is held in high regard.

“I think to be able to extend the educational offer to 18 for those that are going to benefit from it is just excellent. We wish Heathlands well in the future.”

Heathlands – which has 20 residential places and is rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted – currently admits two-thirds of its pupils from outside Hertfordshire.

Councillors were told that the costs associated with the change would be met by the school.

The changes are designed to allow pupils to continue at the school to continue their studies to include A levels.

And councillors were told students would be supported emotionally and academically to reach their potential.

The decision follows a period of statutory public consultation held in March

As part of that consultation 82 responses were submitted and all were said to be in favour.

The proposal was also backed by a meeting of the county council’s education, libraries and lifelong learning cabinet panel on Thursday, May 11.