New learning space approved for special needs pupils at school

Special educational needs students will no longer have to use inadequate facilities now a new assisted learning space has been approved at Longdendale High School.

The Hollingworth-based site has been using a former caretaker’s bungalow next to the main building for their SEN provision, which has been dubbed as ‘inadequate’ and ‘well below acceptable modern day standards’ by the school. 

The site off Spring Street has been granted approval to create a ‘high quality’ single storey assisted living and learning facility set to the west of the main school building.

It would include a main teaching classroom with an assisted learning kitchen unit as well as smaller linked teaching spaces, an office and meeting room and sensory room. The proposal will provide a flexible assisted learning resource base with facilities to meet the special educational needs and curricula of a select number of students. 

Planning documents read: “The location of the existing bungalow is inadequate, positioned on a significant gradient; it presents a number of logistical challenges to its users who often struggle with accessibility issues. The proposals will significantly relieve pressure both on space and capacity of the current existing provision.

“It is also essential that secure external space is provided as part of the new facility. Locating the new building in the proposed position is ideal to achieve this whilst also ensuring level access can be delivered in a relatively discreet and quiet setting. 

“Positioning this against an open boundary which benefits from views across the uninterrupted natural landscape enhances the tranquil ambience of the facility.”

The new school’s last Ofsted report in February 2023 rated them as ‘needs improvement’. In order to excel, the school acknowledged that a proposed new building will be required that will provide a safe, warm and effective environment to deliver a diverse range of activities, specifically for its SEND pupils.

They hope that this new building will help them achieve that aim set out by the education watchdog.