Castleford primary school set to get new SEND classrooms
The school, on Watling Road, was built in 2010 following the amalgamation of two schools
A primary school in Castleford looks set to get new classrooms for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Plans have been lodged with Wakefield Council to build an extension at Oyster Park Primary Academy to accommodate the facilities.
The school, on Watling Road, was built in 2010 following the amalgamation of two schools – Oyster Park Infants and Oyster Park Junior School & Nursery.
It provides eduction for children from nursery to Year 6 and has 347 children enrolled.
Documents submitted to the council on behalf of Castleford Academy Trust said six pupils with additional needs currently used the school’s existing SEND facilities.
The statement said: “However, due to a lack of provision/places in the area, the proposed work is required to increase the accommodation to cater for up to 18 pupils in early years or Key Stage 1.”
The proposal includes extending a former caretaker’s bungalow within the school site to create three more classrooms, a dining space and a quiet room.
Other work includes building a new access ramp, a fire escape and additional toilets.
The document added: “The extension has been positioned to minimise impact of circulation routes and outside play areas while maximising the internal spaces provided.
“The design reflects the scale and character of the existing building, while meting the requirements of the school for additional service provision.
“The scheme has been carefully planned to ensure no impact on existing access and safeguarding arrangements
“The proposal represents a necessary enhancement that supports the operational needs of the school, the Castleford Academy Trust and the wider requirements of Wakefield Council.”
Council planning officers have yet to determine the application.