Alternative needs school built in Lincolnshire

An alternative provision academy has been constructed in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire under the Department for Education’s Construction Framework, with the school accommodating pupils aged four to 16 who are without access to mainstream education.

The project was funded by the Wellspring Academy Trust and the Lincolnshire County Council with the building works having been completed by the regional contractor, G F Tomlinson, while other similar projects have recently been completed in Lincoln and Grantham.

Springwell Alternative Academy Mablethorpe is situated on Seaholme Road, on the former site of the Monks Dyke Tennyson secondary school, with construction works entailing the refurbishment of two of the former school buildings and new construction of a third, providing space to accommodate 63 pupils.

The Framework Manager at G F Tomlinson, Ian Dalby stated: “The new Mablethorpe academy is a great addition to the region, providing a safe and secure environment to promote positive learning for local students requiring an alternative to mainstream education.

“Over the course of these three projects with Wellspring Academy Trust, we have built a strong and ongoing relationship, and look forward to working together in the future on important developments that make a positive difference in their locations.

“Works have already begun on the new Springwell Alternative Academy in Spalding, and we are making excellent progress.”

An opening event was held for teachers, staff, and residents of the local area on Friday 6^th September 2019 and the school officially opened yesterday to students, allowing them access to the school new facilities including: specialised teaching spaces, a special educational needs therapy room, a sensory room, a hygiene room, a fitness suite, a parents’ room, a hall, and a multi-use games area.

The CEO at Wellspring Academy Trust, Mark Wilson added: “We have been working in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and the Department for Education over the past three years to substantially improve the offer to young people excluded from school and at risk of exclusion in Lincolnshire.

“The opening of these new schools marks a key milestone on this long journey. The schools will provide a safe, caring and inspirational environment where our young people can be supported to reach their fullest potential.”

A fourth alternative academy is currently underway in Spalding, specifically for post-16 education, and is scheduled for completion by the winter.

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