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School to double in size after new facilities open

Katy Prickett
BBC News, Northamptonshire
West Northamptonshire Council A teenage pupil on the left in a red hoody looking towards a woman in a classroom. He has short mid brown hair, curling on his forehead. The woman, who is to his left, is looking towards him and laughing. She has long black hair, her glasses are resting on her head, she is wearing a black jacket over a white T-shirt and she has a white mug raised in her right hand. West Northamptonshire Council
The expansion will offer students at the Gateway School a more diverse curriculum

A secondary school will nearly double in size when a range of new facilities based in a previously abandoned building open.

The Gateway School in Tiffield, near Towcester, Northamptonshire, educates 11-18 year-olds with additional social, emotional and mental health needs.

New facilities, opening in September, will include a gym, food technology suite, science rooms, a drama studio, a multi-use games area and a horticulture area.

"We are thrilled to unveil these new spaces, which have been thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of our students," said Conor Renihan, the school's executive head teacher.

"This expansion allows us to offer a richer, more diverse curriculum and a nurturing environment where every pupil can feel valued and supported."

West Northamptonshire Council A refurbished inside swimming pool in a large hall. The water is covered with a blue cover, its brick walls are painted in turquoise and navy and its roof is painted cream. There is a large window in the far wall. West Northamptonshire Council
The pupils all have education, health, and care plans, a legally binding document outlining their educational, health and social care needs

The existing sports hall and pool has been refurbished as part of the plans.

The new facilities will complement the school's existing specialist areas for craft design and technology, art, music, motor vehicles, bricklaying, and hair and beauty.

"The long-term aim is to help students thrive, laying the foundation for successful adult lives beyond the school gates," West Northamptonshire Council said.

West Northamptonshire Council A low-lying single-storey brick built building. It has six large black patio doors and a grey-tiled roof beneath a light blue summer's sky with white clouds. In front of the building is a concrete yard, which has black painted tables and benches. West Northamptonshire Council
The school is run by Creating Tomorrow Trust, a multi-academy trust of schools and colleges

Kathryn Shaw, a Reform UK councillor and the cabinet member for children, families and education at the authority, said: "This expansion is a vital investment in our pupils' futures.

"It's inspiring to see how this development will empower pupils to reach their full potential in the new school year."

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