Market Harborough SEND School On Track For Autumn Opening

A new specialist school in Market Harborough is on track to open this autumn, with strong interest already being shown by local authorities looking to place pupils.

Building work on Aurora Brampton Valley School is nearing completion at the former Roman Way Community Centre.

The school is expected to provide education for up to 80 autistic children and young people aged five to 19.

Emma Williams has been appointed as the school’s headteacher and will lead the team as preparations continue ahead of its opening.

Emma Williams has been appointed as headteacher of Aurora Brampton Valley School. Inset: A science lab at the new school.

Emma brings experience across mainstream, alternative provision and specialist education. Before becoming a teacher, she worked as an analytical chemist for Boots Manufacturing before discovering a passion for education through volunteering at a local school.

Her career has since taken her through schools across Nottinghamshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and beyond.

Describing her appointment as a “once-in-a-career opportunity”, Emma said she was excited to create a welcoming school community where every pupil feels valued and able to succeed.

She said: “We’ve a fantastic opportunity to create a school where young people can develop academically, socially and emotionally. I am excited to build a community that celebrates individuality, helps pupils develop confidence and communication skills, and prepares them for happy and successful futures.

“There’s definitely a need for a specialist school such as ours in the area and we’re seeing a great deal of interest from SEND placement commissioning teams at Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council and neighbouring local authorities.”

The dining room at the new school

More than 60 staff positions are being filled at the school, with the majority of roles already recruited.

The school is particularly looking for a qualified cook to take up a full-time position, alongside other vacancies.

Aurora Brampton Valley School will become the Aurora Group’s 29th registered service when it opens, expanding specialist SEND provision for families across Leicestershire and the surrounding area.