Calderdale Council’s cabinet has approved plans to build a new special school at the former site of the Threeways community centre in Ovenden. The school will cater to students aged five to 16 and aims to address the growing demand for special school placements in the area. Cabinet member for Children and Young People’s Services, Coun Adam Wilkinson, described the initiative as “transformational” for Calderdale.
The location has a history of education, having previously housed Ovenden Secondary School and later The Ridings. The new school will not only create more local places for students but will also reduce costs associated with current placements, which are often provided by private companies. Coun Wilkinson emphasized that the proposal represents an “invest-to-save” strategy.
The council plans to establish a free school and partner with an organization to deliver the service. Coun Wilkinson highlighted the importance of providing quality education for local children, noting that it can be disruptive for them to travel outside the borough for school. Currently, the council spends approximately £1.5 million annually on taxis for transporting children with special educational needs and around £12 million on independent schools to accommodate these students. Some of these children require special travel arrangements, including chaperones.
“Creating a new free school is the best way to ensure we have enough places within the borough,” said Coun Wilkinson. “It is a transformational approach.”
Recently, scrutiny councillors learned from both senior staff and parents of existing special schools that demand for placements is rapidly increasing.
In addition to the new school, cabinet members have also approved a budget allocation of up to £3 million for the expansion of Ravenscliffe at its Spring Hall site, which will include the removal of temporary classrooms.
The Threeways Centre, known for its community space and popular sports facilities, was demolished earlier this year. The council made this decision two years ago due to “serious health and safety concerns.”
You Might Be Interested In