A new state-of-the-art academy for alternative needs students opens in Grantham on Monday (10).

Springwell Alternative Academy Grantham, in New Beacon Road, has 63 places for pupils aged between four and 16 who can no longer access mainstream education.

The new academy features specialised teaching spaces, a special educational needs therapy room, sensory room, hygiene room, fitness suite, parents' room, hall and Multi-Use Games Area.

It has been delivered in partnership with Wellspring Academy Trust and Lincolnshire County Council, through the Department for Education's (DfE) Construction Framework.

Regional contractor G F Tomlinson has completed the works on both the Grantham academy - which was celebrated today (Fri) with an open event for teaching, support staff and local residents today - and another 63-place academy in Lincoln.

Mark Wilson, CEO, Wellspring Academy Trust said: "We have been working in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and the DfE over the past three years to substantially improve the offer to young people excluded from school and at risk of exclusion in Lincolnshire.

"The opening of these new schools marks a key milestone on this long journey. The schools will provide a safe, caring and inspirational environment where our young people can be supported to reach their fullest potential."

Ian Dalby, framework manager at G F Tomlinson, said: "The new academies are a wonderful addition to the region, providing a safe and secure environment to promote positive learning for local students requiring an alternative to mainstream education.

"Wellspring Academy Trust is extremely passionate about the work they do, and the Grantham and Lincoln academies will further bolster the trust's provision of nurture and support across Lincolnshire. It's been a pleasure working on these important projects with them."

G F Tomlinson is also delivering a third academy with Wellspring Academy Trust, in Mablethorpe, and together the three academies will provide 189 places for alternative needs students across Lincolnshire.