Full permission granted for ‘state of the art’ Huddersfield special school
Planning permission has been granted for the new-look Woodley School and College
The construction of a new school for autistic pupils will soon be getting underway after planning permission was granted for the new-look Woodley School and College.
Woodley is currently based at Dog Kennel Bank in Huddersfield, operating from multiple buildings. The school has expanded to include additional teaching spaces over time, but further developments are restricted due to the site.
The school will be moving to Fernside Avenue, Almondbury, and will accommodate around 180 students aged from five to 19. Existing pupils have helped to inform its design, with the new facilities and improved environment set to allow more pupils with additional needs to receive an education within Kirklees.
Work began to clear existing buildings from the Fernside Avenue site in May and now the team can begin the preparations for the construction stage of the project.
Creating a state-of-the-art home for Woodley is part of the council’s work to improve children’s outcomes and transform support for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Councillor Jane Rylah, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “Planning permission is a massive step forward for this important project. Woodley is a fantastic school and the team there provides excellent standards of support and education. This new facility in Almondbury will allow us to build on that offer and make a huge difference for even more young people.
“The new build will support children and young people to thrive and achieve their full potential in the best possible, tailor-made environment. I am excited to see the build progress and look forward to witnessing the positive impact this investment has on lives for many years to come.”
Investment in Woodley School and College is just one part of the wider work to transform SEND support in Kirklees. There is a similar project to rebuild and relocate Joseph Norton Academy, which is for pupils with Social Emotional and Mental Health needs. The council is also working with several schools to create extra places for pupils with additional needs.