Horizon Care & Education Group in partnership with Nine Points Property is developing a site in Wigan, Greater Manchester, into an independent day school that will provide specialist education and integrated therapeutic support.
The building, originally a school sports hall before the site closed in 1997, will bring together both primary and secondary provision under one roof. Leigh Park School will enable up to 90 pupils aged five to 19 to remain in a familiar setting throughout their education. This continuity helps maintain relationships with teachers, therapists and support staff.
Construction began in May and is expected to complete late this year, with the school due to open in the new year, subject to registration by the Department for Education.
Designed by architects Alma-nac, the school draws inspiration from Dutch architect Herman Hertzberger’s concept of the ‘school as a city’, creating a variety of spaces, scales and social environments. The design has been shaped by evidence-based research into learning environments for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Improvements include the installation of rooflights to maximise natural daylight, new first-floor windows, improved insulation, a covered entrance canopy and outdoor learning and recreation spaces.
Inside, environments use changes in height, colour, scale and natural light to create distinct learning zones. Wide, circulation routes, clear visual cues and gentle transitions have been incorporated throughout to support calm movement around the school and reduce cognitive overload. At the heart of the building will be a timber-clad library.
‘We are looking forward to continuing our partnership with Horizon to deliver yet another modern and therapeutic learning environment, creating more spaces for children with SEND to access the specialist education they deserve,’ said James Blake from Nine Points Property.
‘We are particularly excited about the design and flow of Leigh Park School. Through close collaboration between our team, Horizon, the director of SEND and the architects, we have transformed what was once a large, angular warehouse space into a warm, welcoming and free-flowing environment.’
Alex Davenport, director of SEND at Horizon Care & Education, said: ‘We want every pupil to rediscover a love of learning and develop the confidence to achieve their full potential, and this exceptional environment has been designed to make that possible. Alongside dedicated therapeutic spaces, including sensory rooms and a soft play area, therapeutic principles have been woven into every classroom, corridor and transition space, ensuring children feel supported throughout every part of their school day.’
Andrew Kitterick, managing director of Education at Horizon Care & Education, added: ‘As local needs continue to increase, we’re committed to supporting children, local authorities, parents and carers across Wigan and the surrounding areas.
‘Our aim is to keep children closer to home, reducing the need for out-of-area placements and lengthy journeys. This enables young people to remain connected to their families, friendships and local communities while receiving the specialist education and therapeutic support they need.’
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