Expansion to go ahead for Kirklees special school

Woodley School and College, which caters for pupils up to the age of 19 with complex autism, will expand over time to 194 places, helping to meet the increased demand across the district.

A public consultation has already taken place, with respondents showing a high level of support for the proposals.

The expansion has now been approved by members of Kirklees Cabinet.

Longer term, Woodley is also due to move into a superb new facility as part of the council’s plans to improve support for children and young people with SEND. The new site in Almondbury will better meet the needs of pupils and will involve a multi-million pound investment from the council.

Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children, said:

“Increasing pupil places will enable more children and young people with complex autism to secure places and thrive in a local educational setting.

“Creating more SEND provision within Kirklees helps to meet local needs, reduces travel times for children and families and supports pupils to fulfil their potential.

“Children and young people with complex needs often make better, more sustained progress when they attend a setting with access to specialist teaching, support staff and resources. This can be in a variety of settings, including special schools.

“The expansion of Woodley is an exciting development. It will enhance support for local children, both now and in the future, and is just one way that the council is developing SEND provision throughout Kirklees.

“The number of places will increase gradually, leading up to the school moving to its new and better facility – the building of which will be another fantastic step forward.

“We want all children and young people in Kirklees, especially those who need our help the most, to enjoy the best possible start in life.”

Woodley is not the only Kirklees special school due to relocate to an excellent new facility as Joseph Norton Academy – which caters for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties – is also planned to move.

Our Kirklees Futures

Helping learners to access the best facilities and opportunities is a key part of Our Kirklees Futures – the long-term vision for learning across the district.

Our Kirklees Futures brings together the full range of education providers, plus wider partners, with the shared aim that learners of all ages will reach their full potential and be equipped with vital skills for life.

To find out more, please visit the Our Kirklees Futures web page.