A new secondary school dedicated to supporting children and young people with special educational needs has officially opened its doors in Heywood.
Heywood Academy, overseen by New Bridge Multi Academy Trust, will provide tailored educational support for students aged 11-19 with an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) diagnosis.
The school will also support students who may experience speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN) associated with ASC.
A total of 75 secondary placements will be provided in total across all year groups, with teachers initially welcoming 30 students from Years 7 to 9.
Heywood Academy pupil, William, playing ball in the playground.
Students will benefit from a unique and creative take on the national curriculum within their new high-quality inclusive learning environment.
With additional support on hand where required to help pupils develop socially and emotionally, the school has a dedicated focus on outcomes as it supports young people into adulthood with consistently high expectations.
By September 2027, the school will be at full capacity across all year groups, by which time the school’s sixth form college will also open to help students naturally progress into further education.
Laura Millard, executive headteacher of Heywood Academy, said:
“We are really excited to welcome our students into our classrooms for the very first time and we cannot wait to share an amazing journey of learning and development with each and every one of them.
“My staff and I are dedicated to ensuring our students, no matter what their background or ability, achieve their full potential here with us and become valued and participating members of our community.
“We have high expectations for all of our children and young people and we cannot wait to help them all reach their personal goals and aspirations.”
Year 7 form at Heywood Academy with Councillor Rachel Massey and Mr Ben Lord.
Councillor Rachel Massey, portfolio holder for children’s services and education at Rochdale Borough Council, added:
“The opening of Heywood Academy is a proud moment for our borough.
“It marks a significant milestone in our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring that every child and young person in the borough of Rochdale has access to the tailored support they need to thrive, flourish, and become the amazing adults we know they can be.
“Together we are raising Rochdale, and thanks to New Bridge Academy Trust and all of the staff at Heywood Academy, this school will be a place where our young people are nurtured, encouraged, and celebrated.
“I’m really excited to see the incredible journeys they will embark on and I wish the school and all the children the very best for the future.”
To be eligible for a place at Heywood Academy, young people must have an education, health and care (EHC) plan and a diagnosis of ASC and/or speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) associated with ASC.
Any parent who wishes to explore whether Heywood Academy is a suitable option for their child’s needs, can contact Rochdale Borough’s Council special educational needs service at: SEN@rochdale.gov.uk.