(UK) Wigan: Special school for 90 to open in 2027; 'as local needs continue to increase'

Aug 28, 2026, Wigan Today: Children with special educational needs are to benefit from a brand-new specialist school in Wigan

Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) across Wigan and the surrounding areas are set to benefit from a brand-new specialist school opening in Wigan.

Horizon Care & Education Group in partnership with Nine Points Property is transforming an existing steel-framed hall on the former King’s Park Christian Centre site into Leigh Park School: a purpose-designed independent day school providing specialist education and integrated therapeutic support for up to 90 pupils aged five to 19.

The building, originally a school sports hall before the site closed in 1997, is being completely reimagined to create a modern, nurturing learning environment where children can thrive both academically and emotionally.

Bringing together both primary and secondary provision under one roof, Leigh Park School will enable pupils to remain in a familiar setting throughout their education. . . .

Construction of the 1,738m sq specialist school began in May and is expected to complete in late 2026, with the school due to open in the new year, subject to registration by the Department for Education. . . .

 “We are particularly excited about the design and flow of Leigh Park School. Through close collaboration between our team, Horizon, the Director of SEND and the architects, we have transformed what was once a large, angular warehouse space into a warm, welcoming and free-flowing environment.” . . . 

The opening of Leigh Park School comes at a time of increasing demand for specialist school places across Greater Manchester.

Andrew Kitterick, Managing Director of Education at Horizon Care & Education, said: “As local needs continue to increase, we’re committed to supporting children, local authorities, parents and carers across Wigan and the surrounding areas.”

Newly appointed Headteacher Johanna McManus said: “Our vision is to create a warm, inclusive and ambitious school where every child feels valued, understood and safe.”