Significant milestone marked as new special school takes shape
A major milestone has been celebrated in the creation of a transformational new school for children with additional needs.
Together with Wellspring Academy Trust, Joseph Norton Academy and Wates Construction, we have marked the completion of the building’s main structural frame.
When complete, Joseph Norton Academy will relocate from Scissett to this new purpose-built school in Deighton.
What the school will offer students
As well as being in a more central location, the new site will offer a state-of-the-art learning environment for around 132 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
The building’s design and facilities have been shaped with input from pupils and aim to provide the best possible environment to learn and grow.
Alongside access to the latest assistive technologies, pupils will benefit from sensory gardens and outdoor learning spaces to enhance learning experiences and help every child reach their full potential.
When the new school opens, Joseph Norton Academy will change its name to Josie Thirkell Academy.
Marking the milestone by signing the steel
To celebrate the key milestone, partners came together to sign one of the girders that forms part of the building’s skeleton and to see the progress being made first hand.
The event marks the completion of the building’s primary superstructure and foundations.
Works will now begin on constructing the exterior of the building.
Councillor Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council, said:
“It’s wonderful to see our plans for the new Joseph Norton Academy really taking shape now that the outline of the building is visible.
“Signing the steel marks an exciting milestone and brings us one step closer to creating an inspiring, supportive school where every child has the chance to thrive.
“The new facilities highlight our ongoing investment in SEND services across Kirklees. We’re committed to providing the right support and opportunities for children with additional needs, and this new school will play a big role in helping us meet that need.”
Councillor Jane Rylah, Cabinet Member for Education, said:
“This is a really exciting moment for everyone who’s been working to create a high quality learning environment for Joseph Norton Academy.m
“It’s fantastic to see the new school building making such brilliant progress.
“When it’s finished, the school will make a real difference. This state-of-the-art building and its facilities, together with nurturing and supportive teaching, will ensure children with additional needs can flourish and be their best selves.”
Todd Cheetham, Head of School at Joseph Norton Academy said:
“It was a genuine pleasure to attend the signing the steel ceremony and witness first-hand the remarkable progress being made on site.
“There is something uniquely rewarding about seeing the structural framework rise from the ground, marking a significant milestone for pupils.”
Dan Miller, Operations Director, Construction East at Wates said:
“Drawing on our extensive experience of constructing education facilities across the country, we are delivering a school where the design, layout and facilities will work for every learner.
I’d like to thank the project team and our partners for their hard work and commitment to keeping the build on schedule. Their dedication is helping us create a school environment that reflects how important a setting like this is in a child’s life, a place designed to give every learner the right surroundings to grow and feel supported.”
More information
Head over to our Joseph Norton Academy web page and follow our Joseph Norton build updates.
Transforming SEND services
The multi-million pound project is part of the council’s wider commitment to transforming support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Alongside Joseph Norton Academy, work is underway to relocate and rebuild Woodley School & College, which supports autistic pupils aged 5 to 19. Additional SEND places are also being created across other schools in the district.
For details, and SEND support visit our Local Offer website.
Our Kirklees Futures
The creation of inclusive learning environments is central to Our Kirklees Futures, the long-term vision for education in Kirklees that brings together schools, colleges, and partners to ensure all learners develop vital skills for life.