New SEND facility opens in Kirklees 

Woodley Moor school for children of primary-school age with additional needs has officially opened, as part of the local initiative to improve SEND provision and help all learners achieve their potential

A celebratory event has been held to mark the official opening of Woodley Moor school in Kirklees, attended by pupils, governors, council representatives and school leaders. 

Photo by Laura Rivera

Part of Woodley School and College in Crosland Moor, the new facility welcomed its first pupils in November.  Provision is tailored to meet the needs of children with complex autism and the site features zoned classrooms with sensory-friendly lighting, a thematic learning environment, therapies room and life skills room. Outdoor play areas and a safe drop-off zone fully support children’s learning and logistical needs. 

The council worked closely with the school to create Woodley Moor. The development is part of the local council’s ambitious, multimillion-pound investment in better SEND and specialist school provision across the district.  

Indeed, the longer term plan is to relocate and expand Woodley School, with a state-of-the-art, new purpose-built campus at Almondbury. The opening of Woodley Moor means that the school can accommodate an additional 25 children now, ahead of the move. For the time being, the Woodley Moor facility is a satellite to the main school premises – although staff stress that pupils are very much part of the same school and receive the same high-quality education. 

Adrian Sugden, Head Teachers, says: ‘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.’ 

Cllr Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities at Kirklees Council, adds: ‘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.’ 

Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, says: ‘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.’ 

In related news:

Domestic abuse risk increases for mistreated children – research

Pollution could cause unborn babies to develop intellectual disabilities

Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill introduced to parliament