Construction of new SEND School, Woodbridge Road Academy in Ipswich, commences

Construction on a new SEND school in Ipswich has begun.

The three-month groundwork for Woodbridge Road Academy is nearing completion, which allows for building to take place.

Under current plans, the school will open its doors in September 2023.

The school, which is being designed to teach children ages 9 to 16 with communication and interaction needs, is being run by the non-profit Paradigm Trust.

It will be the eighth school under its belt.

The school's principal, Naomi Shenton, has been managing the development of the school since October 2020.

She has also been heading a group of 16 children who are to set to attend Woodbridge Road Academy once it is complete.

Right now, this group is based at Murrayside Community Centre, another of the trust's schools.

Ms Shenton, who is working alongside the site managers on the project, said: “It’s really exciting to see these groundworks in action as our plans start to become reality for our students.

"Working alongside the site managers is a huge privilege as we see our new school in Ipswich start to take shape.”

Construction on the building is being handled by Bowmer and Kirkland Building Services.

Bill Holledge, Paradigm Trust's boss, revealed the school's construction should be quick due to its design.

He added: "We are looking forward to opening the doors to pupils next autumn.”