The steel frame is now in place at Acre Wood Academy in Crowborough, where a dedicated facility for secondary-age pupils is under construction. Primary-age SEND students are already based at the Church Road site, but the new development will allow secondary pupils – currently educated at Beacon Academy – to move onto the same campus. Post-16 students will continue to be based at the school’s Green Lane site.

Councillor Bob Standley, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for Education, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, said: “A great deal of work has already taken place, but the erection of the steel frame is a significant step forward and the first sign of the building really taking shape.

Acre Wood specialist facilities

“I look forward to the development progressing.

“Bringing both primary and secondary pupils onto the same site will give pupils and their families a greater sense of community, will improve access to specialist facilities and increase access to therapy.

“Investment in Acre Wood is part of our commitment to ensure high quality provision for young people with SEND.”

The new building will provide 60 specialist places and has been designed to meet a range of complex needs.

Plans include ramped and lift access, safe and secure outdoor spaces, covered breakout areas, and PE and social facilities.

Neil Miller, deputy CEO of London South East Academies Trust, said: “This new building represents a major investment in the future of Acre Wood Academy and the young people it serves – we are grateful to East Sussex County Council for its support.

“Bringing all our pupils onto one site will strengthen our school community and enable us to deliver highly tailored education and support in an environment designed specifically for pupils with complex needs.”

Acre Wood designed for children with complex needs

The project is being delivered by contractor Willmott Dixon and is expected to be completed early next year.

Richard Poulter, Willmott Dixon’s managing director for the South, said: “This project will have a lasting impact on the community. Acre Wood Academy has been carefully designed to meet the complex needs of its future pupils and to make the best use of the site.”

Source: https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/25880144.acre-wood-academy-expansion-progresses-crowborough/