Joseph Norton Academy – build update May 2026
Big things are happening in Deighton, as work continues on a new, purpose-built school for Joseph Norton Academy.
When works are complete, the academy will move from its current site in Scissett into this new building.
The school will then welcome around 132 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, providing them with modern, state-of-the-art facilities tailored to support their development.
What’s been happening
External works – walls and windows
As you can see, everything is looking pretty red and purple at the moment, but the building won’t stay this way for long.
The colours come from the weather boarding and breather membrane which have been installed around the building. Together these will help to keep it dry and warm. This current colourful exterior will soon be covered up by external brickwork.
Most of the windows are installed with focus turning to the installation of the external doors.
Roof
The roof of each single-story wing is now completed and fully weatherproof. Work has moved onto the main double story building, where insulation and felt is currently being installed.
Fixing points for new solar panels, which will eventually be added to the roof, are being installed at the same time.
All of this external work means the building will soon be fully watertight and weatherproof.
Internal works
If we take a peek inside the building, we can see that the internal partition walls have started to go up. These divide the massive space into separate classrooms, spaces and corridors.
At the same time, the core mechanical and electrical elements are going in. This can be thought of like the building’s central nervous system that will eventually support the internal systems needed for day-to-day operation.
Groundworks and drainage
All internal drainage has been completed, along with all ground floor concrete slab pours. The majority of external drainage has now also been completed.
The team is now building a retaining wall and outdoor learning area.
Landscaping
The full perimeter fence is nearing completion. Landscapers are now starting on the outdoor play area.
What’s up next?
- Finalising the external elements of the building – brickwork, roof and doors
- Finish installing the internal walls and electrical.
- Continuing with the external ground works and play areas.
- Tarmac will start to be laid as part of the hard landscaping.
Follow the story
Read the previous build update March 2026
For more information
Visit our Joseph Norton Academy webpage for more information about this project.
Improving SEND services
This investment is part of our wider commitment to transforming support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).