Work begins on Wakefield’s new specialist school offering up to 120 places for children with SEND
A major milestone has been reached in plans to open a new specialist secondary school in Wakefield.
The new Wragby School, based at the former Wakefield Independent School site at Nostell, will offer 90–120 places for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), giving families the chance to access the right support much closer to home.
It means fewer long journeys, more stability for children, and less reliance on expensive placements outside the district, making a real difference to families’ lives in the district.
Wakefield Council has invested capital funding to bring the site back into educational use and is working closely with Venn Education Group.
Scheduled to welcome its first students during the 2026/2027 academic year, the transformation of the building forms part of a wider programme to strengthen local SEND provision and ensure young people can learn in environments designed around their needs.
Coun Margaret Isherwood, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Being on site marks a powerful step forward.
"We’re not just planning for better SEND provision – we’re building it.
"This school will give more children the support they deserve close to home, and it reflects our commitment to practical, innovative solutions for Wakefield families.”
Demand for SEND places is rising nationally, and councils everywhere are under pressure to find sustainable solutions.
This partnership is Wakefield’s way of meeting that challenge locally and making a real difference for families.