Oldham school extension to boost SEND places

North Chadderton School has begun building work on two new one-storey extensions that will double its capacity for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. The school, which has run a successful SEND provision since 2013, will increase places from 12 to 25 for children with Autistic Spectrum Condition, allowing them to access mainstream education with appropriate support.

Sarah North, chief executive of The Oak Trust which runs the school, said work started earlier this month with completion targeted for summer, ready for the September intake. The £70m SportsTown development takes another step forward despite 'trust' concerns, but this expansion represents a more immediate change for local families seeking specialist provision close to home.

The expansion comes after North Chadderton submitted a successful bid to Oldham Council for capital funding through the Higher Needs Programme. The school says demand for places has always been high, and the additional capacity will help reduce the need for out-of-area placements, potentially cutting travel times for families and keeping children within their local community.

Planning documents show the extensions will be built at the northeastern part of the main building, with external finishes matching the existing architecture. The school has a track record of supporting students with additional needs and helping them secure appropriate future pathways, making this expansion a significant boost to inclusive education options in the area.