Construction firm BAM has commenced building work on the new Yeoman Park Academy.

The academy, which is part of Diverse Academies Trust, provides a highly specialised education for children and young people with profound and multiple learning difficulties, including autism and those with developmental and sensory impairments.

BAM hosted staff and children from Yeoman Park Academy, Mansfield Woodhouse, alongside representatives from the Department for Education and Nottinghamshire County Council, to mark the official breaking of the ground at the site for the new school building.

The school was identified as one of the first 50 to be selected for upgrading as part of the government’s 10-year, multi-wave rebuilding programme for schools.

Steve Roome, BAM Construction Director, said: "Our longstanding partnership with the Department for Education has seen us deliver many projects across the length and breadth of the UK.


"We're delighted to be here today breaking ground on the brand-new Yeoman Park Academy. Our values align with those of the academy, to inspire and raise the aspirations of the next generation. We are also dedicated to creating a brighter and sustainable tomorrow. We are looking forward to working with the school and the community, to provide opportunities for them and local businesses as this is also very important to us."

With site preparations now complete, developers BAM are set to commence construction of the new purpose-built school, which will be located on land close to the current academy building.

David Cotton, Chief Executive officer for Diverse Academies Trust, added: "It's been a privilege to be joined by students, colleagues and partners today. This development reflects a significant investment in our region to support the needs of many families who require access to highly specialist educational facilities for their children.

"The new academy building will fully cater for up to 138 pupils and, in addition to the high-quality teaching spaces, facilities will include a hydrotherapy pool, hall, multi-use games area and sensory gardens – with the potential for wider community use in the future.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Department for Education and Nottinghamshire County Council on this project, and also particularly our thanks to Leas Park Junior School and The Manor Academy, which is part of The Two Counties Trust, for their partnership working to help bring the new school building vision to life."