Children and young people with complex needs in South Cambs will continue to receive support after educational services faced with closure were taken over by a specialist provider.

The Aurora Group agreed a deal with previous owner Scope to ensure the future of the sites, now called Aurora Meldreth Manor School – which provides specialist education and care for children with severe learning difficulties – and Aurora Orchard Manor, a residential and day service for young adults with similar conditions.

Aurora chief executive, Stephen Bradshaw, said: “We appreciate that with the announcement of closure this has been an uncertain time for parents and families and for the children and young people themselves, so we are delighted to guarantee the future of these services.”

When news of the potential closure broke last year, the campaign group, Save Meldreth Manor, was formed and attracted widespread support on social media. Now secure, the services will undergo a significant investment programme – including appointing a new principal – with the aim of both facilities becoming outstanding in the eyes of Ofsted.