(UK) Kirklees: $63M for 2 special schools; "for children with complex communication, interaction needs"

June 23, 2025, Huddersfield Hub: Kirklees Council makes new investment in SEND places with work underway to build two new special schools

https://huddersfieldhub.co.uk/kirklees-council-makes-new-investment-in-send-places-with-work-underway-to-build-two-new-special-schools/  

N. England

Kirklees Council continues to invest in creating more school places for children with additional needs.

While the council is in the process of building two brand new special schools, it continues to invest in existing provision. . . .

Now there will be additional provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at New Mill Infant School and New Mill Junior School in Holmfirth.

The council’s Cabinet has given approval for the creation of 18 new places – nine each at the infant and junior schools – at a combined cost of £300,000 [$407,000].

Both schools will see some re-modelling of classrooms and toilet facilities with sensory spaces also created. There will be external works to secure boundaries and outdoor play spaces.

The places will be for children with complex communication and interaction needs. . . .

Clr Jane Rylah, Cabinet member for education, said: “It is a major priority to support our more vulnerable learners and transform services for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

“There is a growing demand for specialist school places across the country. Here in Kirklees, we’re doing everything possible to secure more places within the district and meet our local need.

“Additionally Resourced Provisions have opened at other local schools, tackling inequality and creating the right conditions for children to fulfil their potential.

“ARPs are nurturing spaces specifically tailored to their pupils. We have already seen the difference they make to children, young people and families.”

Another part of the council’s SEND transformation is the ambitious ongoing work to relocate two special schools – Woodley School and College and Joseph Norton Academy. . . .

The two new schools will cost £46 million [$63M].