Work to create a fantastic new school for Kirklees pupils with additional needs has won a major award.
The Joseph Norton Academy scheme, managed by Kirklees Council in partnership with Wellspring Academy Trust and delivered by Wates – received a National Project Excellence Award (NPEA) for Project of the Year – North.
The awards celebrate outstanding public sector projects across the UK, recognising work that makes a real difference to people and communities.
The honour was given for the construction of a new school in Deighton, Huddersfield. The school will provide high-quality education facilities for pupils with Social Emotional and Mental Health needs.
Councillor Rob Butler, Cabinet Member for Education and SEND, said:
“This award is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work, commitment and close partnership between the council and Wates in delivering this important project.
“Our goal is to create a state-of-the-art school for Joseph Norton Academy that will give young people an inspiring space to learn, explore and grow.
“When the building opens, it will provide specialist facilities for some of our most vulnerable learners. It will help pupils to fulfil their potential and will provide brilliant support for our children and families for many years to come.”
Dan Miller, Operations Director at Wates Construction said:
“This award is fantastic recognition of the expertise, hard work and teamwork that has gone into this project. Working closely with Kirklees Council and our project partners, the team are creating a high-quality, specialist learning environment that has been designed around the needs of its students.
“It is particularly rewarding to see a project that will have such a positive and lasting impact on young people, their families and the wider Kirklees community recognised nationally.”
Once the building work is complete, Joseph Norton Academy will move from its current site at Scissett and be renamed Josie Thirkell Academy.
Follow the story
Read more information on the Joseph Norton Academy scheme on our website or check out our build blog for the latest update.
Improving SEND services
This investment is part of a wider commitment to transforming support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
For more information about SEND services or support in Kirklees visit the Kirklees Local Offer website.