Work starts on new "world class" special education school building near you
Construction has officially commenced on a major new educational facility in Lostock Hall.
The groundbreaking ceremony at Applebee Wood School in Far Croft marks a significant milestone in the region’s educational infrastructure, as the special education school is comprehensively redeveloped under the Department for Education’s (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme.
The project represents what leaders call a “substantial investment”, designed to replace existing infrastructure with a modern, purpose-built environment for up to 168 students and 77 staff. It follows Applebee Wood School’s recent integration into The Sea View Trust Multi Academy Trust.
A Collaborative Milestone
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by representatives from The Sea View Trust Central Team, the DfE, and construction partners. Students Eden, Thomas, Owen, Jaidan, Olivia, and Lola officially marked the start of construction by breaking the ground.
Key figures from the Department for Education, including Tom Bodger and Sarah Seaton, were present to oversee the launch of the project, which is being managed by MACE, with Tilbury Douglas serving as the lead construction contractor.
Leadership Commentary Angela Holdsworth, CEO of The Sea View Trust, said: “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.”
New Facility Specifications
The new two-storey structure has been designed specifically to meet complex educational needs. It will feature three distinct wings centered around a core administration and therapy hub.
Key features of the new build include:
- West Wing (Ground Floor): A dedicated Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) suite with independent external access.
-North Wing (Ground Floor): Classrooms for non-ambulant students, facilitating direct access to outdoor learning areas.
- East Wing: Will house communal spaces including the assembly and dining hall.
- Upper Level: Secondary classrooms (North wing), primary classrooms (East wing), Learning Resource Centres (LRCs), and staff supervision areas.
- Security: A secure reception incorporating a parent room and waiting area.
- Outdoor Provision The redevelopment extends to the school grounds, which will feature a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a playing pitch suitable for U11/U12 football, and an all-weather track designed for non-ambulant pupils. The site will also include a forest school habitat and vegetable allotment to support outdoor education.
Construction is now underway, with the steel frame expected to rise in the coming months. Site management is being led by Darren Wescott of Tilbury Douglas, with a focus on community liaison during the build process.
Applebee Wood School
Applebee Wood School has joined The Sea View Trust in September 2025, and was previously known as Applebee Wood Community Specialist School. Applebee Wood is a generic learning difficulties school. All of their children have an Education Health and Care Plan, and staff work closely with numerous professionals to ensure that we provide the appropriate provision for each individual child.