Council and Woodley School Celebrate Opening of New Autism Facility
A superb new school facility for Kirklees children with additional needs has been officially opened.
Woodley Moor educates autistic children of primary-school age and is another milestone in the council’s transformation of support for families with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Part of Woodley School and College, it is located in Crosland Moor and is part of an ambitious multi-million-pound investment to enhance SEND facilities and offer more specialist school places across the district.
Woodley School is in the process of being relocated and expanded. The new facility means they can already take in 25 extra children before moving to their new, purpose-built school in Almondbury.
The council and school have worked together closely to create Woodley Moor, which is tailored to meet the needs of children with complex autism. It features zoned classrooms with sensory-friendly lighting, a thematic learning environment, a therapies room and a life skills room. Outdoor play areas and a safe drop-off zone ensure that both learning and logistical needs are fully supported.
The official opening was a celebratory event bringing together pupils, governors, council representatives and school leaders to showcase the impressive facilities.
Cllr Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet member for Education and Communities, said:
“This is a proud moment for Kirklees Council as we take another step forward in ensuring all children can access the resources and support they need to thrive.
“The opening of Woodley Moor highlights our commitment to transforming SEND provision in our area. We are excited to see the difference it will make to the lives of children and their families.”
Woodley School’s main location is off Dog Kennel Bank in Huddersfield, but any further developments are restricted due to the site. Woodley Moor is known as a ‘satellite’ to the main location, but pupils are part of the same school and will receive the same high quality of education.
Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children’ Services, said:
“This new facility reflects our continuing commitment to meeting local needs in local schools, ensuring more children have access to special education closer to their homes.”
The facility has already welcomed its first pupils, who transitioned to Woodley Moor in November, and the reaction of children and parents has been very positive.
Head teacher, Adrian Sugden shared his enthusiasm for the new facility, saying:
“The students have settled well and are really enjoying the calm, new and controllable environment. Parents have told me how delighted they are and we would like to thank everyone for their support and help opening the centre, a provision that will make a positive difference to our students and their families.”
Our Kirklees Futures
Woodley Moor is an integral part of Kirklees Council’s strategy to improve SEND provision and help all learners fulfil their potential. It serves as a bridge to the future state-of-the-art campus planned in Almondbury.
Alongside this, the council is also rebuilding and relocating Joseph Norton Academy as a further multi-million-pound investment in special schools. Providing access to enhanced educational provision is part of Our Kirklees Futures – the long-term vision for learning across the district. For more information visit the Our Kirklees Futures webpage.