Take a look inside Blackpool's new special school as building work is finally completed

The Lotus School on Langdale Road at Mereside was granted planning permission in December 2018, with work beginning in June last year.

The building is now almost complete, with a fully fitted science laboratory, a food technology room, an art room, a music suite and a fitness area.

Head teacher Rachel Kenworthy said: "It has been a busy and exciting few months as we have been making preparations for the opening of the school in September. All the staff are keen to meet the first cohort of students, who will play a key role in the school's development.

"We also want Lotus to be part of the community of Blackpool and have made a commitment to ensure the students have lots of opportunities to support local projects and engage with the local residents.

"As a headteacher I feel incredibly fortunate to have been involved in the whole construction process, and have worked closely with architects to ensure that the building fully supports the students, and allows them to thrive."

The Lotus School will provide education to up to 48 children aged 10 to 16 who have an Education, Health and Care plan for Social, Emotional and Mental Health.

As well as generic classrooms, the school has been fitted with sensory rooms and a life skills flat to provide specialist support to those who need it.

Rachel said: "We have been really welcomed by the Blackpool community and look forward to forging strong partnerships with key stake holders, including other schools, to support the journeys of the young people within Blackpool. At Lotus we believe in looking to the future and showing the students that nothing in their past is too great to overcome."