A new £6.6 million specialist teaching facility at Gosberton House Academy special school has officially opened, giving pupils access to modern classrooms, therapy spaces and sensory learning areas.
The development replaces two temporary mobile classrooms and adds two new classrooms alongside dedicated therapy rooms, staff workspaces and specialist areas for sensory exploration. It has been designed around the needs of local children and funded by Lincolnshire County Council as part of its Building Communities of Specialist Provision Strategy.
Pupils played a central role in the opening celebrations, giving guided tours of the new building and showcasing the facilities they helped to shape. They were also involved in choosing elements such as floor colours, paint and resources throughout the project.
Guests from Lincolnshire County Council joined staff, governors and colleagues from the University of Lincoln Academy Trust and Lincoln University for the occasion, which included the unveiling of the building’s name, ‘Willow House’, chosen following a school community vote.
Cllr Natalie Oliver, executive member for children’s services, said: “One of my highest priorities is ensuring that all children are able to access high-quality SEND provision within their own community. This incredible new facility will make a massive difference to local families, ensuring their children can get the support they need, without having to travel long distances.
“However, this is just one of many projects happening as part of our multi-million pound improvement programme, which will dramatically transform the standard of SEND support for pupils countywide. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to deliver this for local families, and I’m sure more successes will follow in future.”
Stuart Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the University of Lincoln Academy Trust, said: “This new building is a major investment in our pupils and their future, made possible by Lincolnshire County Council. It will enhance opportunities for learning, therapy and sensory development, and make a real difference to young people in our community.”
Academy Principal Katharine Saywell added: “It has been wonderful to celebrate this milestone together. Our pupils have been involved every step of the way, from design choices to watching the building take shape, and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved.”
The project was delivered by construction company Wates.
Pictured (left to right): Councillor Tom Catton (Executive Councillor for Resources) , two GHA pupils, Katharine Saywell (Principal of GHA) and Professor Neal Juster (Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln).