A new school for children with additional needs has been officially opened.

Woodley Moor in Crosland Moor is part of Woodley School and College and educates primary school age children with autism.

The new school is part of a wider transformation of Kirklees Council’s support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The council is investing millions of pounds in facilities and creating more specialist school places.

Woodley School in Lowerhouses 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.

 

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Clr 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 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.

Clr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for children’s 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 said: “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.”

As well as a new Woodley School, the council is relocating Joseph Norton Academy from Scissett to Deighton. A new school will be built on the site of the former Deighton Centre.

 

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