New school to bring another boost for local education
We are delighted to confirm that, in partnership with Delta Academies Trust, the council has received government approval to open a new school for pupils with additional needs.
The Alternative Provision Free School will cater for children and young people aged 8 to 16, bringing additional, high-quality specialist places and helping to meet local demand.
Alternative Provision (AP) often refers to education for people who are unable to attend a mainstream or special school and are not educated at home. More information about AP setting can be found on our AP Page (opens link in same window). Pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties will be among those who benefit from a nurturing and inclusive school environment.
Support will be tailored to individual needs as the council, Delta Academies Trust and other partners join forces in creating a school which makes a lasting difference for children and families.
Planning is now under way and it is expected that over 100 places will be available, with the school likely to be based in a suitable existing building.
Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children, said:
“It’s fantastic news that a new school will be opening in Kirklees so that pupils who need extra help and support can continue to thrive.
“Many pupils with additional needs make more sustained progress when they can access a specialist setting, and creating additional provision is vital to families, as well as pupils themselves.
“We are pleased to work alongside Delta Academies Trust, who will run the school when it opens. This is a great opportunity to, once again, be highly ambitious for vulnerable learners in Kirklees.
“Offering the best support to children and families is incredibly important to us. We are transforming these services and the new school is another huge boost for local education.”
Jo Pittard, Executive Principal of Delta Academies Trust, said:
“Our vision is for students to feel safe, valued and part of a community, so that they develop a sense of self-belief, aspiration and pride in their ability and achievements. We look forward to working closely with young people, parents, staff and wider stakeholders to realise this vision.”
The new school will open with funding from the Department for Education. In addition to the Alternative Provision Free School, the council is making a multi-million pound investment in excellent new facilities for Joseph Norton Academy and Woodley School and College – two local special schools.
Helping learners to access the best facilities and opportunities is a key part of Our Kirklees Futures – our 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 (opens link in new window)
We have also published the SEND Big Plan, which explains the way support and services are being developed for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. You can see this on the Local Offer (opens link in same window).
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