Historic building could become SEND school

Part of a historic former army barracks could be converted into a new school for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The gatehouse building of the Grade II listed Hillsborough Barracks in Sheffield would be turned into accommodation for Kingfisher Academy under plans submitted to the city council.

The academy offers specialist educational for secondary-aged pupils between 11 and 16 years old who are unable to attend mainstream education due to significant medical needs, including high levels of anxiety and mental health conditions.

Initially, it would accommodate about 40 pupils, with the flexibility to increase to a maximum of 60.

West Bar Property Rentals, which has submitted a planning application, said demand for SEND education in Sheffield had risen.

The council said in 2024 that it was forecasting demand for another 300 SEND places over five years.

SLA Design Planning, on behalf of West Bar Property Rentals, said in the application the academy would provide "a tailored learning environment focused on supporting some of the city's most vulnerable young people".

Its curriculum would be centred on English, maths and science, supplemented by wider subjects including humanities and food technology, it said.

Its four teachers, three support staff and one administrative member of staff would generally be present between 08:00 and 16:30, while pupils would attend between 09:00 and 15:00.

The application said the school would not need extensive outdoor facilities as activities would be carried out in local sports halls, parks and other community facilities.

The school would secure the long-term viable use of the "historically significant building" and provide high quality specialist education.

The gatehouse was originally an officers' mess and regimental institute dating from the mid-19th Century.

The application said internal alterations would be made sensitively, architectural features would be preserved and it would prevent deterioration of the building.

Planning officers are considering the application.

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