Maes Ebbw School in Newport opened in 2001, following the amalgamation of two special schools. The 156 pupils all have a statement of special educational needs for severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties or autistic spectrum disorders. The school has three sites across Newport (Maes Ebbw main site, Maes Ebbw Bach and Maes Ebbw Brynglas). Nearly all pupils come from Newport, with very few living close to the school. Thirty-one per cent of the pupils are eligible for free school meals. Around one fifth of pupils are from ethnic minority groups, mainly from Asian and mixed race backgrounds. The school mission is to provide a stimulating environment that challenges everyone’s abilities and expectations. There are currently the equivalent of 24 full-time teachers and 70 classroom support staff. The headteacher has been in post since 2012.