Plans for two new £5 million specialist schools in Cumbria have moved a step forward today.
The schools, in Carlisle and Barrow, will cater for 40 pupils each and will offer education for growing number of young people who are unable to access mainstream education due to social, mental and emotional and health issues.
Cumbria County Council ‘s cabinet named Roland Hill Ltd, based near Aspatria, as the contractor which will build the schools.
A statement from the county council said: “A key element of the Inclusive Cumbria Strategy (2017-22), this £5m investment from the county council seeks to improve outcomes for young people.
“The schools, in Barrow and Carlisle, will be managed by the council’s Pupil Referral Services department, providing new and additional space to compliment existing facilities at Newbridge House and the Gilford Centre.”
Councillor Sue Sanderson, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for schools and learning, said: “It’s great to see progress towards two new alternative provision schools in areas of need in Cumbria.
“The council is absolutely committed to ensuring all children are able to access education, whatever their needs, and these new schools will provide children with a range of academic, social or emotional difficulties a genuine local alternative to a mainstream school.
“This is brilliant news for families in Cumbria.”
