Zenith Multi Academy Trust Appointed to Manage New Special Educational Needs School

Zenith Multi Academy Trust has been designated to operate a forthcoming two-site school for children with special educational needs and disabilities in south Essex. This new facility, designed for 150 pupils in Rayleigh, will be the first of its kind within the Rochford district, complemented by an additional 40 places at a location in South Woodham Ferrers. Essex County Council formally appointed Zenith Multi Academy Trust to oversee the school, which is projected to commence operations in 2026. The Department for Education (DfE) has officially endorsed the council’s recommendation of the trust as the sponsor for this new educational establishment. The council has also chosen Kier Construction to undertake the design and construction of the school. It will be situated across two distinct sites: 150 student capacities will be established at the Wolsey Park development, located off Rawreth Lane in Rayleigh, with a further 40 at the former Chetwood School site in South Woodham Ferrers. The school is intended to serve children aged between three and 19 years old. Its funding will be provided through a DfE grant and contributions from developers secured via section 106 agreements. Tony Ball, the council’s cabinet member for education, commented: “Once complete, the school will offer almost 200 special school places for young people in south Essex from a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility.” He further expressed his anticipation “to seeing this innovative project progress”.