By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Demolition begins to make way for state-of-the-art facilities for Woodley School and College

Kirklees Council’s ambitious plans to build a new school for pupils with complex autism have taken a significant step forward as work begins to clear the site for Woodley School and College’s relocation.

Currently based at Dog Kennel Bank in Huddersfield, Woodley School and College caters for autistic pupils aged 5 to 19.

Operating from multiple buildings on a restricted site, the school has outgrown its existing facilities.

The new home for Woodley will be at Fernside Avenue, Almondbury.

The new location will offer around 180 places, providing superb facilities and an improved environment, ensuring that more pupils with additional needs can be educated within Kirklees.

Demolition Underway

In the next stage of the project, DSM Demolition has commenced work to remove existing buildings at the Fernside Avenue site, paving the way for the new state-of-the-art school to be built.

Creating this new home for Woodley is part of Kirklees Council’s wider initiative to transform support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Transforming Opportunities for Pupils

Cllr Jane Rylah, Cabinet member for Education, said: “We’re excited to enter the next phase of this project and move a step closer to something really amazing.

“Woodley already provides excellent standards of support and education, but the new facilities in Almondbury will further enhance their offer and make a huge difference for autistic pupils.

“We’re working closely with Woodley to ensure their children and young people, along with staff and families, will experience the best possible, tailor-made environment.

“We want all of our children to thrive, achieve great outcomes and fulfil their potential. The new Woodley will have an enormous, positive impact on many lives – and for many years to come.”

Part of a Wider Vision

The investment in Woodley School and College is part of a wider effort to transform SEND provision across Kirklees.

A similar project is also underway to rebuild and relocate Joseph Norton Academy, which supports pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs.

Additionally, several schools are creating extra places for pupils with additional needs.

This investment from

Having an inclusive learning system, where learners of all backgrounds can gain essential life skills, is a central aim of ‘Our Kirklees Futures’ – the long-term vision for learning across the district.