New £6 Million School Extension Opens To Transform Learning In South Cumbria
A major £6 million extension at Sandgate School in Kendal has officially been completed, marking a significant investment in education for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities across South Cumbria.
Funded by Westmorland and Furness Council, the new development includes a modern entrance and reception area, additional meeting rooms and staff offices, four new classrooms, dedicated breakout spaces for smaller group learning, a sports hall, changing facilities, and improved storage areas. These new facilities have been designed to create a more supportive and effective learning environment for both students and staff.
One of the standout features of the extension is a new sensory room, equipped with interactive wall and floor projectors, ceiling mounted tracking hoists, and calming equipment to support pupils with additional sensory needs. The school also worked with local specialists to install an indoor climbing wall, giving students the opportunity to develop confidence and physical skills without needing to travel to external venues.
School leaders played an active role throughout the planning and design process, helping to ensure the building includes appropriate lighting and acoustic features to reduce sensory overload. A new teaching kitchen has also been introduced, enabling students to prepare school meals while gaining valuable practical and vocational experience in partnership with Kendal College.
A special celebration event was held to mark the completion of the extension, with guests touring the new facilities and enjoying refreshments prepared by the students. Headteacher Dan Hinton described the new building as a calm, modern, and purpose built environment that will maximise learning opportunities while supporting the wellbeing of both pupils and staff.
The completion of the project represents another important step in improving SEND education across the region. Local leaders believe the investment will provide lasting benefits by creating more specialist school places, enhancing learning experiences, and helping young people develop the skills they need for greater independence and future employment opportunities.
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