£9million School Opens Near Southampton

21 October 2011, 10:35 | Updated: 21 October 2011, 10:38

A new £9million school for pupils with severe physical and learning disabilities has officially opened near Southampton.

Forest Park Primary school in Totton includes special features such as a hydrotherapy pool, soft play and light rooms, fully equipped playground and a dedicated nursery space which can be used after school hours too.

The whole school is designed to be easily accessible for pupils with mobility problems.

Hampshire County Council Leader, Councillor Ken Thornber said: “I am very proud the County Council has been able to finance and build this marvellous project. This is a fantastic facility for pupils and staff and indeed the local community. The pupils and staff moved into these facilities earlier this year as the final touches to the outside area were finished off. The site now provides a wonderful supportive and stimulating environment for the children and staff.”

Headteacher Nicky Dando said: “The whole building has been designed with the needs of the children in mind. We were able to work closely with Hampshire County Council’s architects and explain what our children needed and they took everything into account in the design. The children absolutely love the new building, the space and all the specialist rooms. The playground is particularly popular too especially the all-weather football pitch, wheelchair accessible roundabout, swings musical instruments and wigwams. We have also refurbished the secondary site making various improvements including resurfacing the playground and creating a multi-gym for the pupils to enjoy and help them improve their fitness.”