State-of-the-art tech learning hub opens in city centre

A pioneering new centre for children with special educational needs and disabilities has opened in Derby city centre.

Imbue is a gaming and tech learning hub for young people aged from eight to 18 who have social, emotional or mental health needs or are struggling to engage with mainstream education.

The inclusive facility, which has been created in partnership with Derby City Council, is equipped with cutting-edge immersive technology that provides a range of exciting and engaging activities for individuals to learn and develop new skills, while having fun in a safe and secure environment.

Imbue has opened the centre following the city council’s successful bid for government funding from the Department for Education’s Short Breaks Innovation Fund.

Councillor John Whitby, the city council’s cabinet member for children’s social care, learning and skills, said: “All children and young people are different, and mainstream education is not the best fit for everyone.

“This new centre is so impressive and it’s very exciting to have an innovative facility like this available to families in the city.”

Sessions at Imbue will encourage young people to develop life skills in areas including coding, digital technology and media, as well as experiencing physical activities and immersive experiences.

Imbue will also provide respite and short breaks, as well as alternative education provision, after-school clubs and one-to-one sessions.

Simon Leonard, co-founder of Imbue, said: “This is an inclusive, immersive experience for children that struggle in mainstream education, and I don’t think there’s anything like it anywhere else in the country.

“Our aim is to support children to develop their social skills and life skills through a love of gaming and tech.

“Working in partnership with Derby City Council, we want to inspire young people to grow their potential and set goals for their future.”

Councillor Whitby said: “All children and young people are different, and mainstream education is not the best fit for everyone.

“This new centre is so impressive and it’s very exciting to have an innovative facility like this available to families in the city.

As we continue to work on developing Derby’s special educational needs and disabilities provision, we’re aiming to provide a range of options to enable each individual to live their best life, and this is a shining example of that.”

Derby City Council’s short breaks project gives children with disabilities a chance to take part in activities and develop skills, while giving their families a break from their caring responsibilities.

The programme offers an opportunity for young people to enhance their wellbeing, develop their resilience and access social situations while being guided by a team of experienced support workers and mentors.

In addition to Imbue, other organisations offering short breaks in Derby include The Endorphins Group, Umbrella, St James’ Centre and Derbyshire Autism Services.