A SCHOOL fitted with equipment for special needs students is to open its doors next week.

Staff at the £20m Kings Academy, in Middlesbrough, hope the high-tech facilities will provide the key to individualised learning.

A sophisticated sound system in each classroom will provide streamlined low-level amplification that will cut out background noise, and can be transmitted to radio operated hearing aids.

Assistant principal Andy Lister, who is responsible for students with special needs, said: "The system will offer improved hearing conditions for children who are deaf or hearing impaired.

"But it has another huge benefit in that research has shown that it helps all students become more attentive, therefore reducing or eradicating behavioural problems.

"There is no doubt in my mind that it will help us in our goal to become a national pace-setter for the whole of the country in provision of first-rate education to children who have special educational needs."

The school opens on Monday and replaces Coulby Newham and Brackenhoe Schools under plans drawn up by Middlesbrough Council.