New SEN school opening in historic Oldham building

A new special educational needs school is set to open in Oldham this spring, bringing specialist support for children with autism, ADHD and social, emotional and mental health needs to a historic building on Wellington Road.

Horizon Care and Education Group will operate Thornycroft School in the Grade-II listed building that previously housed Hulme Grammar School's kindergarten. The three-storey building will educate up to 70 pupils aged five to 19, with refurbishment work currently underway to preserve its heritage features.

The school will feature eight classrooms, breakout areas for individualised learning, and a separate primary building surrounded by outdoor facilities for play and sensory experiences. The refurbishment is expected to be completed by late spring, pending approval from the Department for Education.

Hulme Grammar School sold the property last year after deciding its kindergarten was 'no longer financially viable', choosing instead to focus on its provision from Reception to Year 13. The new SEN school aims to keep children closer to home, reducing the need for out-of-area placements and long travel times.

Andrew Kitterick, Managing Director of Education at Horizon, said: 'Our aim is to keep children closer to home, reducing the need for out-of-area placements and long travel times. This ensures they remain rooted in their communities and connected to their families and friendships.