We complete structural frame for new Joseph Norton Academy
We complete structural frame for new Joseph Norton Academy
- Construction of the new Joseph Norton Academy has reached a major milestone, with the full building frame now complete.
- The purpose-built school will more than double current capacity, growing from 63 to 132 places for pupils aged 4-18 with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
- New facilities will include specialist learning spaces, sensory gardens, and outdoor teaching areas, designed with input from pupils to support wellbeing and independence.
Alongside partners from Kirklees Council, Wellspring Academy Trust, and Joseph Norton Academy, we held a ceremony to mark the completion of the main structural frame at a new school for children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
At the steel signing ceremony, partners gathered to sign their names on one of the steel girders forming part of the building’s primary superstructure.
Work will now begin on constructing the exterior of the building.
Once complete, Joseph Norton Academy will relocate to a new purpose-built 3,563 sq ft site that will offer a state-of-the-art learning environment. Designed with input from pupils, the school will feature sensory gardens, outdoor learning spaces, and the latest assistive technologies to support learning, wellbeing, and independence, while increasing capacity from 63 to 132 pupils aged 4-18.
We have more than 60 years of experience delivering education buildings across the UK, applying this expertise to create learning environments that meet the needs of pupils and local communities.
The Joseph Norton Academy project continues this work, providing facilities designed to support wellbeing and effective teaching for students with SEMH needs.
The project has also been designed as a low carbon development targeting an EPC A+ rating, incorporating photovoltaic panels, high performance LED lighting and air source heat pumps.
Drawing on our extensive experience of constructing education facilities across the country, we are delivering a school where the design, layout and facilities will work for every learner.
“I’d like to thank the project team and our partners for their hard work and commitment to keeping the build on schedule. Their dedication is helping us create a school environment that reflects how important a setting like this is in a child’s life, a place designed to give every learner the right surroundings to grow and feel supported.”
Dan Miller
Operations Director, Construction East at Wates
It’s wonderful to see our plans for the new Joseph Norton Academy really taking shape now that the outline of the building is visible.
“Signing the steel marks an exciting milestone and brings us one step closer to creating an inspiring, supportive school where every child has the chance to thrive.
“The new facilities highlight our ongoing investment in SEND services across Kirklees. We’re committed to providing the right support and opportunities for children with additional needs, and this new school will play a big role in helping us meet that need.”
Councillor Carole Pattison
Leader of Kirklees Council
This is a really exciting moment for everyone who’s been working to create a high-quality learning environment for Joseph Norton Academy.
“It’s fantastic to see the new school building making such brilliant progress.
“When it’s finished, the school will make a real difference. This state-of-the-art building and its facilities, together with nurturing and supportive teaching, will ensure children with additional needs can flourish and be their best selves.”
Councillor Jane Rylah
Cabinet Member for Education
It was a genuine pleasure to attend the signing the steel ceremony and witness first-hand the remarkable progress being made on site.
“There is something uniquely rewarding about seeing the structural framework rise from the ground, marking a significant milestone for pupils.”
Todd Cheetham
Head of School at Joseph Norton Academy
The project procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework forms a key part of Kirklees Council’s wider programme to enhance local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision and increase access to high quality learning environments for children and young people.
