New school for children with complex needs to open

18 hours ago

Gemma DillonPolitical Reporter, West Yorkshire

Kirklees Council announced proposals to open a new school for up to 125 pupils who are unable to attend mainstream schools or specialist provision

PA Media Image shows a classroom scene. Pupils are sat facing a blackboard. In focus at the front of shot is a pot of classroom equipment including scissors and pens. — Kirklees Council announced proposals to open a new school for up to 125 pupils who are unable to attend mainstream schools or specialist provision

A new school for 125 children with complex needs will be opened in an area with high demand for alternative educational provision.

Kirklees Council said it would enter into partnership with Delta Academies Trust to run the school for pupils aged 8-16.

The free school would take children who are unable to attend mainstream or specialist settings already and who are not taught at home.

Cabinet member for education Jane Rylah said: "We want to ensure there are enough of the right places for our learners. This funding enables us to create more places and locate them within Kirklees."

The places would meet growing local demand for alternative provision, including from families facing health and behavioural challenges.

Pupils who have not "thrived" in the mainstream system would be supported to reach their potential, with teaching tailored to their individual needs.

Delta would operate the school, which would be government-funded and based in an existing building deemed suitable.

Rylah added: "Some pupils find learning more difficult than others, so they require extra support to overcome those challenges.

"We already have a strong relationship with Delta Academies Trust, who deliver a high standard of alternative provision in safe, secure and inclusive environments."

The proposal also includes plans to set up a task force to work with eligible pupils and their families, which would be based at the school and offer expertise from health, education and social care services.

Kirklees Council has already pledged millions of pounds to rebuild and expand two existing special educational needs (SEND) schools.

Woodley School and College, which takes children with complex autism, will relocate from its current site in Huddersfield to the former Almondbury Community School site.

Joseph Norton Academy, which supports pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, will be rebuilt in Deighton.

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