We are building our first school for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH). The Bowman Academy, in Shepshed, Leicestershire will have space for up to 65 pupils aged five to 16. Research suggests that one in six children in this age group are likely to have a mental health problem.

Bowman Academy is our 78th school for the DfE and it will have a variety of classrooms, including science and art studios, a music room, a sensory / immersive room and a quiet, calming room, as well as an outdoor learning area, multi-use games area and car parking.

The Department for Education (DfE) has designated £350 million to provide 3,500 new school places nationally for children with special educational needs or those facing additional challenges in mainstream education.

Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families at Leicestershire County Council, said: “It’s exciting to see Bowmer + Kirkland start on site and we look forward to seeing the building take shape. This is an important part of a wider programme to ensure provision is available to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in the county, as close to their homes as possible.”

Councillor Taylor is pictured with our Contracts Manager, Stephen Waldron (left) and Site Manager Shane Jones.