New special school in York set to open following Ofsted approval
Academy in Acomb will support students aged 11 to 16
A new independent special school in Acomb, York, has been officially registered by the Department for Education, paving the way for its opening this autumn.
Inspire Academy, part of the York-based Excel Learning Trust, will cater to students aged 11 to 16 with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, as well as other special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school will offer places for up to 40 pupils and aims to provide a high-quality, personalised education that prepares learners for GCSEs and life beyond the classroom.
Following a successful pre-registration inspection in June, Ofsted confirmed that Inspire Academy is “likely to meet all the independent school standards when it opens.” Inspectors praised the school’s well-planned curriculum, strong safeguarding measures, and its emphasis on pupils’ personal, spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
Rickie Wilson, Head of School at Inspire Academy, said:
“Inspire Academy has been developed with care, vision, and commitment to creating a nurturing and ambitious environment for young people who need it most. We’re thrilled to open up this provision to the York community.”
Mark Hassack, CEO of Excel Learning Trust, added:
“We are proud to expand our family of schools with Inspire Academy. This school represents our dedication to inclusive education and supporting every learner’s potential. With experienced, fully trained staff, dedicated facilities, and a focus on wellbeing and achievement, Inspire is set to become a valuable addition to specialist education in the region.”
The school is located on Cornlands Road in Acomb and will welcome its first pupils in the upcoming autumn term.