EDUCATION IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The latest news from across the region
THE FINAL phase has begun of a £45m scheme aimed at revolutionising education in Leeds for some of the city’s most vulnerable children.
The official topping-out ceremony for the last of the new Springwell Leeds academies has taken place, marking the completion of the frame of the building.
The new Springwell Special Academy will be split across three sites in the north, east and south of the city, in an effort to provide specialist learning environments for pupils aged between 11 and 16 with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
Leeds City Council, which has covered the cost of the project, has worked with Wellspring Academy Trust, which has expertise in specialist education and will run the schools, as well as Leeds Local Education Partnership and Interserve construction to ensure the pupils’ needs are met.
Interserve has been on site since September 2016 working on the three new buildings, which will include specialist teaching areas, sensory rooms, outside learning areas and sports pitches as well as multi-use games areas.
Councillor Lisa Mulherin, executive member for children and families, said: “It is great to see the Springwell Leeds buildings progressing and on track to open next year.
“This is an exciting time for specialist learning provision within the city.
“The £45m investment demonstrates our commitment to ensuring all pupils are supported to succeed and reach their full potential.
“This new specialist provision will radically improve the learning, support and outcomes for some of the city’s most vulnerable children.”
The project is expected to be completed by next July, with the three sites ready in time for the 2018 academic year.
Current provision at Oakwood Lane for pupils with SEMH needs will also be part of the pioneering scheme.