The New Walnuts School Opens

11.15.12pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 18th Jun 2007

The Walnuts School (formerly based in Simpson) relocated to brand new, purpose built buildings at Hazeley on 5 June.

The move marks four years of planning, vision and hard work by Milton Keynes Council, the head teacher, governing body and pupils, all of whom have made a massive contribution to the creation of the fantastic new facilities.

The £7M new school has been designed specifically to meet the needs of children with autistic spectrum disorders. It caters for 90 pupils, 30 of whom will be residential.

Liberal Democrat councillor Sandra Clark, cabinet member fir children, said: '' I'm absolutely delighted to see this new school open. It represents a landmark for Milton Keynes Council and demonstrates our commitment to provide exemplary facilities for some of our most vulnerable young people. Increasing the number of places also means that these youngsters can stay in Milton Keynes, rather than have to travel to specialist facilities a long way from their homes and families. That makes me very happy.''

Nick Jackman, Walnuts' head teacher, added: ''The new accommodation is truly fabulous and it is no exaggeration to say that the spacious classrooms and specialist facilities are already having a positive impact upon pupils' learning and their anxiety levels. I am looking forward to establishing the school in the local community and working in partnership with nearby mainstream schools. The future for The Walnuts School is very exciting"

A celebration event and official opening will be held early in the autumn term, when staff and children have had the chance to settle in.