A former office building could become a state-funded school after plans have been submitted.

The Digital Factory on Durham Way South in Newton Aycliffe Business park was previously being used by ITEC / Bishop Auckland College as offices providing business training services.

However, recently submitted plans could see the building converted into a state-funded school for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

The school would aim to accommodate a maximum of 30 pupils aged between 11 and 16 with ASD or cognitive and learning difficulties.

Plans argue that there is a significant need for autism spectrum places in the area and a need to support children with complex learning difficulties.

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It adds: “The pupils will be provided with one-to-one support from a teaching assistant and the school’s bespoke curriculum offer, alongside wider therapeutic care and support, will meet the individual needs of each people and help break down barriers to learning.”

The proposed school will help to provide a high-level curriculum pathway that will offer GCSE level one to nine outcomes., with level three post -16 pathway, as well as level appropriate qualifications for lower ability pupils.

Currently there is an existing car park to the south of the building providing a total of 46 car parking spaces, which plans argue should provide sufficient parking levels.

The application has not yet been decided and can be viewed and commented on via the Durham County Council website.

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