The groundbreaking ceremony at Applebee Wood School in Far Croft has officially commenced the construction of a new facility aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students with special needs. This development is part of the Department for Education’s (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme and represents a significant investment in the region’s educational infrastructure.
The project is set to replace existing facilities with a modern environment designed to accommodate up to 168 students and 77 staff. This redevelopment follows the recent integration of Applebee Wood School into The Sea View Trust Multi Academy Trust, marking a pivotal moment in its evolution.
Details from the Groundbreaking Ceremony
The ceremony was attended by key representatives from The Sea View Trust Central Team, the DfE, and construction partners. Students, including Eden, Thomas, Owen, Jaidan, Olivia, and Lola, symbolically marked the start of construction by breaking the ground.
Present at the event were notable figures such as Tom Bodger and Sarah Seaton from the DfE, who oversaw the launch of the project. The construction is being managed by MACE, with Tilbury Douglas serving as the lead contractor.
Leadership Insights
Angela Holdsworth, CEO of The Sea View Trust, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are absolutely thrilled to officially welcome Applebee Wood School into The Sea View Trust family. Today’s groundbreaking is symbolic not just of new foundations for a building, but of the strong foundations we are building together for the future of our learners. This significant investment will provide the world-class, modern environment that our staff and pupils truly deserve.”
John Cockerill, Head Teacher of Applebee Wood School, added, “Joining The Sea View Trust has already brought fantastic opportunities to our school community, and seeing work begin on our new site today truly marks the start of our great new beginning. This new building will transform the learning experience for our pupils, giving them the bespoke, purpose-built spaces they need to thrive.”
Facility Features and Future Plans
The new two-storey structure is specifically designed to cater to complex educational needs. It will include three distinct wings arranged around a central administration and therapy hub. The key features of the new build include:
– **West Wing (Ground Floor)**: A dedicated suite for students with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), providing independent external access.
– **North Wing (Ground Floor)**: Classrooms tailored for non-ambulant students, ensuring direct access to outdoor learning facilities.
– **East Wing**: Communal spaces such as an assembly and dining hall.
– **Upper Level**: Classrooms for both secondary and primary education, as well as Learning Resource Centres (LRCs) and areas for staff supervision.
– **Security Measures**: A secure reception area, complete with a parent room and waiting area.
The redevelopment will also enhance the school grounds, introducing a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a playing pitch suitable for U11/U12 football, and an all-weather track specifically designed for non-ambulant pupils. Additionally, the site will feature a forest school habitat and vegetable allotment to support outdoor education initiatives.
Construction is now in progress, with the steel frame expected to rise in the upcoming months. Site management is led by Darren Wescott of Tilbury Douglas, who is committed to maintaining community liaison throughout the build process.
Applebee Wood School, which joined The Sea View Trust in September 2025, was previously known as Applebee Wood Community Specialist School. It serves students with generic learning difficulties, where all pupils have an Education Health and Care Plan. The staff collaborates closely with numerous professionals to provide tailored educational support for each child.
This initiative signifies a substantial step forward in creating a nurturing and effective educational environment for students with special needs, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and quality in education.
