New Modular Unit Opens at Oakfield Park School to Support SEND Students in Wakefield

A new modular unit has recently opened at Oakfield Park School in Ackworth, providing much-needed support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the Wakefield district. This exciting development aims to create additional specialist places for students who require tailored educational assistance, ensuring that more families can access support closer to home.

New Modular Unit

The opening of the new unit marks a significant step forward for the school, which has already welcomed pupils since April 2026. The facility features four classrooms designed with dedicated sensory and breakout spaces, which are essential for helping children with various learning needs. Initially, the unit can support up to 18 children, with plans to increase this number as more places become available in September.

Community Benefits

Matthew Caton, the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, expressed his enthusiasm for the new provision, stating, “Creating more specialist places in our district is a key priority. This new provision at Oakfield Park will help more children access the support they need closer to home. Reducing the need to travel and helping families stay connected to their local community is vital.”

This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the local SEND offer, ensuring that children and young people receive the right support to thrive. By investing in local facilities, families can maintain connections with their community while their children receive the necessary education.

Supporting Diverse Needs

Oakfield Park School serves pupils aged 11 to 19 who face severe, complex, and profound learning difficulties, including autism and other additional needs.

Headteacher Nicola Cryer shared her thoughts on the new unit:

“This new provision is already having a positive impact for our pupils. The additional space and specialist facilities allow us to better meet the needs of young people with a wide range of learning difficulties, supporting them to feel safe, settled and ready to learn.”

The creation of this modular unit is not an isolated case; it is part of ongoing efforts to improve existing SEND provision across the district. Alongside the new unit, a satellite provision has also been established at Penny Appeal in Thornes Park, providing even more local options for children and families in need of support.

Investment in Education

The development of this new provision has been funded through the High Needs Capital Grant and is part of the Council’s SEND Sufficiency Programme. This programme focuses on investing in specialist places and facilities to meet the growing demand for SEND provision in the area. As the number of children needing support increases, these investments are crucial for ensuring that every child receives the education they deserve.

Future Developments

As the modular unit begins to operate, further enhancements to the educational landscape in Wakefield are anticipated. The local council remains committed to expanding and improving services for children with SEND, actively seeking ways to meet the needs of families in the district. The focus on providing local options not only supports children in their educational journeys but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.

This new development at Oakfield Park School is a promising sign of progress in the education sector, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and support for all students, regardless of their individual challenges. With ongoing investments and community-focused initiatives, the future looks brighter for children with special educational needs in Yorkshire.