The Gateway School expansion opens in September to better support pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs

07 July 2025

Pupils at The Gateway School in Towcester are set to benefit from a transformative expansion that will open this September, offering a broader, more inclusive curriculum and a range of new facilities tailored to their social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. 

The new spaces are designed to foster engagement, build confidence, and support the further development of academic, practical and vocational knowledge and skills, helping students thrive, laying the foundation for successful adult lives beyond the school gates.

Key figures from West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), The Gateway School, and Creating Tomorrow Trust came together for a first look at the newly completed facilities. The expansion nearly doubles the size of the school and reflects a shared commitment to inclusive education and tailored support for every learner.

Attendees toured the new facilities, which have been sensitively refurbished from an abandoned building to meet the needs of the SEMH students. They feature a gym, food technology suite, ICT and science rooms, drama studio, nurture spaces, multi-use games area (MUGA), horticulture area, and a newly refurbished sports hall and pool. These complement the current specialist areas for craft design and technology (CDT), art, music, motor vehicles, bricklaying, and hair and beauty.

"This expansion is a vital investment in our pupils’ futures. The enhanced facilities at The Gateway School will provide even greater support for young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs, helping them thrive both academically and personally. It’s inspiring to see how this development will empower pupils to reach their full potential in the new school year."
Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council

"We’re thrilled to unveil these new spaces, which have been thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of our students. This expansion allows us to offer a richer, more diverse curriculum and a nurturing environment where every pupil can feel valued and supported. We look forward to welcoming them back in September."Conor Renihan, Executive Head at The Gateway School

The expansion is part of a wider initiative led by the Creating Tomorrow Trust to improve access to specialist education and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.