A LEADING special needs school in the region may have to close because of Government policy.

The trustees of Newcastle's 166-year-old Northern Counties School, which educates children with a range of disabilities, say it is under threat from a "short-sighted" drive to send special needs children to mainstream schools.

The school, which was founded for deaf youngsters and now has a national reputation, could have to shut its doors in July next year.

Headteacher Frances Taylor said: "The children we cater for have complex needs, requiring individual attention, which is why we provide a high staff-to-pupil ratio.

"With Government pressure to create a fully inclusive system - a one-size-fits-all approach - we are concerned that the needs of the children are not being considered."

The number of pupils entering the school is falling and trustees fear it will become unviable.

A decision will be taken in March and, if closure is agreed, there will be an 18-month period for pupils to be found alternative school places.