19 August
Excitement mounts as school build completed
As building work at the new Aurora Brampton Valley School in Market Harborough concludes, headteacher Emma Williams has spoken of her excitement at finally being able to access the premises.
“Today, we officially received the keys from the builders, meaning we can now begin to install furniture and equipment in preparation for our autumn opening,” said Emma.
“As founding headteacher, I feel immense pride in what’s been achieved so far and I can’t wait to welcome our first students and families into this beautiful new home for learning.”
Aurora Brampton Valley School, in Roman Way, is expected to provide education for up to 80 autistic children and young people aged 5 to 19.
Emma brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked across mainstream, alternative provision and specialist education settings. Before entering teaching, she worked as an analytical chemist for Boots manufacturing before discovering a passion for education through volunteering in a local school.
Her career has since taken her through schools serving communities across Nottinghamshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and beyond.
'Every corner of the new building has been carefully planned'
Speaking about the opportunity to lead the school, Emma said it was a “once-in-a-career opportunity” to help create a new school from the ground up with a clear vision and purpose. She said she’s excited to create a welcoming school community where every pupil feels valued and able to succeed.
“Every corner of the new building has been carefully planned,” she said. “The parquet hall, with its warm herringbone pattern, will soon echo with assemblies, laughter and shared achievements. The classrooms are designed to nurture focus and belonging and the specialist spaces, such as the science lab and kitchen, reflect our commitment to practical learning and independence, giving students the tools to explore and create.”
Emma and her team are currently preparing for the school’s opening, with staff recruitment progressing well and plans in place for training ahead of welcoming pupils.
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 (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) placement commissioning teams at Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council and neighbouring local authorities.”
