Head Teacher Robyn Lee-Gibb and her colleagues have welcomed pupils into the state-of-the-art building after contractors E G Carter & Co finished construction.

Young people (aged 11 – 16 years) with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs will be taught at the school, which will also support children with autism and speech, language and communication needs.

At Brook Academy, all pupils will have the same opportunities for learning as their peers in mainstream school, as well as access to specialist facilities.

There is an on-site vehicle workshop, hair and beauty salon, music recording studio, BMX track and construction workshop for those interested in vocational learning.

In the construction workshop, pupils can learn skills such as bricklaying, plastering, plumbing and electronics.

Robyn-Lee Gibb said, “We are excited to welcome pupils into this fantastic new facility. Not only does the building provide excellent learning environments, but there are outstanding sporting and vocational spaces too. 

“The building is at the leading edge of eco-technology, so we can teach and learn knowing that our school is designed with the future of the planet in mind. Our team is dedicated to creating educational opportunities for pupils so they can realise their full potential, and we can’t wait to get started.”

The project was designed in line with Gloucestershire County Council’s plan to address climate issues. Brook Academy is fitted with solar panels, ground source pump heating, electric charging points and LED lighting.

Cllr Philip Robinson, cabinet member for education, skills and bus transport at Gloucestershire County Council, said, “I am delighted by the news that Brook Academy is now open and young people attending the school will be able to learn in an environment designed to meet their needs.

“Learning should be accessible for all young people, with equal opportunities for them to reach their full potential. 

“It’s great to see a specialist school of this type is now open in Gloucestershire as part of the council’s wider plan to create more specialist school places in the county. 

“I wish all the pupils starting this year well and hope they are enjoying the new facilities.”

After successfully bringing in the project on time, E G Carter & Co say they hope the children attending Brook Academy will thrive in the purpose-built environment.

Thomas Jones, associate director at E G Carter & Co Ltd, said: “We have been extremely proud and lucky to have been appointed by Gloucestershire County Council to design and deliver the new Brook Academy School. 

“The school, designed by Robothams Architects, will provide a much-needed and fabulous facility for the pupils for many years to come. The building has such a wide range of facilities and features, and it is now great to see the students making use of them.”