Thousands of extra school places for our region

PARTS OF Yorkshire are set to benefit from the creation of thousands of new school places.

The Government yesterday said up to 75 new free schools and standalone sixth forms would be opened, with 14,000 extra school places made available.

In 55 Education Investment Areas identified in the Levelling Up White Paper, councils will be prioritised for up to 15 new mainstream schools, including standalone sixth forms.

Bradford, Doncaster, Kirklees, Leeds, North Yorkshire, Rotherham and Wakefield are among locations designated as Education Investment Areas.

The first of a new wave of up to 60 special and alternative provision (AP) free schools will open from September 2025, creating 4,500 new places. These will have pupils who have been excluded or are at risk of exclusion, as well as offering behavioural and mentalhealth support.

The Department for Education said the school places built on commitments made in the levelling-up and schools white papers, as well as the special educational needs and disabilities and AP green papers, aiming to end a “postcode lottery” for pupils with special needs.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: “All children have the right to a high-quality education.

“Parents should feel confident that their local school works for their child, no matter where they live or their ability.

“From mainstream education which can provide for every need, to specialist teachers and equipment in tailored settings, our new schools across the country will continue to make sure that every child, in every corner of the country, gets the support they need to succeed.”