Barraclough hosts successful open day ahead of 2025 launch
Excitement filled the air on Monday, 9th December, as prospective parents, neighbours, and members of the community gathered for the open day at Barraclough Hall School.
Hosted by Polaris Community, the event provided attendees with a first look at the ongoing transformation of the former Bryan Wood Care Home into a state-of-the-art, therapeutic learning environment.
Visitors were welcomed between 10am and 2pm to meet the dedicated staff and explore the innovative changes being made to the building. As Polaris’ biggest development to date, the school promises to deliver a nurturing and inclusive space tailored to the needs of neurodivergent children.
Loren Cahill, Project Manager at Polaris, said: “We want school to be a really exciting time for children, especially those with additional needs, so we’re considering every last detail to ensure it provides the best learning environment.”
The extensive renovations include internal restructuring with classrooms and themed calm spaces, the addition of 18 new parking spaces, a one-way traffic system, and a bike shelter to ease congestion in the area. School timings have been strategically planned to differ from neighbouring school The Mount, minimising disruption to the local community.
Outdoor learning is also a key focus, with plans for a forest school and a courtyard sensory garden underway. Overgrown plants and trees have been carefully cleared, with a strong emphasis on protecting wildlife and nesting birds.
Named after Lucy Barraclough, a pioneering sportswoman and advocate for women’s football, Barraclough Hall will accommodate up to 40 children aged 5-18.
Jane Cubley, Headteacher for Barraclough Hall, said: “This is an extremely exciting time and we can’t wait to open our doors to our first cohort in February 2025, where we can provide outstanding opportunities for students to help them engage with learning, strengthen their skills and build trusting relationships which will help them both inside and outside of school with the support of an experienced team of staff”.
The open day not only showcased the school’s thoughtful design and innovative features but also underscored Polaris Community’s commitment to supporting children with additional needs. As the February 2025 launch approaches, Barraclough Hall is set to make a profound difference in the lives of its students and their families.