Special school being built with British steel starts to take shape
A NEW school designed to support both young people with special needs and the country’s steel industry is taking shape in South Yorkshire.
The metal framework for the new Bader Academy is now in place and the project is one of the first to follow the signing of the UK Steel Charter by the Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones.
Last September, the council joined a list of organisations which are committed to supporting homegrown industry by promoting the use of UK-produced steel in construction and infrastructure projects.
Ms Jones said: “We are delighted, not only in seeing the great progress being made on the construction of Bader Academy, but also that we are honouring Doncaster’s commitment as a signatory of the UK Steel Charter.
“Ninety-one per cent of this project’s steel is supplied and
manufactured here in the UK, and we are taking practical steps through our procurement processes for future construction projects to ensure British steel use is a priority.
“This project is also a fantastic asset to Doncaster’s education offer, and we are looking forward to the completion of this important facility which will provide vital specialist education places for some of our young people, ensuring they have the best possible start and greater opportunities to succeed.”
The 100-place special school will cater for five to 19-year-olds with various needs, including high-functioning autism, and will support all of the students by offering smaller class sizes and a personalised curriculum.
Andy Hurcomb, a director of construction company Willmott Dixon in Yorkshire, said: “This fantastic and important specialist school will create such a positive legacy for the young people of Doncaster.
“We’re proud to be using British steel and project milestones such as this steel signing give us the opportunity to take stock of the dedication and teamwork involved in making this exciting project a reality.”