New school moves a step closer for pupils with additional needs
Exciting plans to build a new special school in Deighton, Huddersfield, have taken another big step forward.
The plans – in a partnership between Kirklees Council and Wellspring Academy Trust – will see Joseph Norton Academy rebuilt and relocated, leading to a high-quality learning environment for pupils with Social Emotional and Mental Health difficulties.
Joseph Norton Academy is currently based in Scissett and its students enjoy an excellent education. However, the buildings are dated, it offers only 63 places and there is limited scope for expansion.
Planning permission has now been granted for the new-build to go ahead. It will create a total of 132 places in a more central location which better suits the needs of children and young people.
The new development will not only accommodate more pupils aged 4-18, it will also provide top-class facilities and greater opportunities.
The site is on land that was formerly home to the Deighton Centre. This will reduce the significant distances that some children are currently travelling to school.
Building the new Joseph Norton Academy is part of work being led by the council, alongside partner organisations, to transform support for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The next step will be appointing a contractor to carry out the building works.
Tom Brailsford, Strategic Director for Children’s Services, said:
“This is another great example of how we’re supporting children and young people with SEND so they can achieve the best possible outcomes.
“We’re ambitious for all of our children, especially those who need extra help, and the new school will be a fantastic addition to our local education offer.
“Joseph Norton Academy caters for a wide range of needs and will have better facilities, more space, a more suitable location and around double the current number of places.
“Nationally, there is increasing demand for specialist school provision. We are investing in our children and families, not only to provide what’s needed but to enhance lives for many years to come.”
David Shepherd, Strategic Director for Growth and Regeneration, said:
“We have worked closely with Joseph Norton Academy and the Wellspring Academy Trust in designing high-quality facilities, both indoors and outdoors.
“The new school will help pupils to fulfil their potential in an environment that’s especially tailored to support them.”
A spokesperson for Wellspring Academy Trust said:
“We are absolutely delighted with the news that planning permission has been granted. This is a significant step forward for our pupils.
“We look forward to working closely with the local authority to progress the build and ensure a fantastic new learning environment for future generations.”
Joseph Norton Academy is not the only Kirklees special school due to relocate to an excellent new facility.
Woodley School and College – which caters for pupils with complex autism – is also planned to move. You can have your say on those proposals and there is more information in our previous story.
Our Kirklees Futures
Having an inclusive learning system, where all learners get the support they need, is 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 be equipped with vital skills for life.
For more information, please visit the Our Kirklees Futures web page.