New learning space opens in Bradford for children struggling in mainstream schools
Cityview is part of Bradford AP Academy - and officially opened last week
A NEW learning facility has opened in Bradford to help secondary school students who are struggling in mainstream education or at risk of expulsion.
Cityview is part of Bradford AP Academy, and operated by Exceed Academies Trust.
It officially opened on Thursday in the former District PRU site off Anerley Street.
The facility offers short-term placements to young people aged 11 to 16 years from secondary schools across the district who are at risk of being excluded because of their behaviour.
The school was opened by Bradford City Women’s player Monika Stube.
At the facility, students receive help from professionals to support them to re-engage in learning and successfully return to mainstream education.
This taskforce includes specialists in mental health, speech and language therapy, anger management, youth justice, and neurodiversity.
The same taskforce also goes into mainstream secondary schools to work with students at risk of permanent exclusion, with the hope that by intervening early they can reduce the chance young people are excluded from school.
The facility was funded by Bradford Council along with contributions from schools that place students there, and can accommodate 32 students.
Duncan Jacques CBE, Chief Executive Officer at Exceed, said: “Cityview and the taskforce will play a crucial role in supporting some of the most vulnerable students in our community – young people who often don’t respond to traditional approaches.
“Through this model, we can fast-track vital services such as speech and language or neurodevelopmental assessments. This helps schools, families, and students understand the support needed for them to thrive in both education and life.”
He said the children attending the school were some of the most vulnerable in Bradford. He added: “The Council helped fund the refurbishment and made sure it meets the needs of the pupils.”
Richard Bottomley, the Head of the school, said: “This has been a long work in progress, so it’s great to finally get soe life in it and have this grand unveiling.”
Councillor Sue Duffy, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Children and Families, said: “The opening of Cityview represents a significant increase in alternative provision capacity across Bradford district and will play a vital role in ensuring that vulnerable young people have access to an education programme and support that matches their individual needs and gives them the best opportunity to succeed.
“It offers headteachers, governors, parents and young people a chance to prevent permanent exclusions. Instead of waiting until a crisis point, schools can refer students early, ensuring the right support is provided at the right time.”