Plans to rebuild a multi-million-pound special school are taking a step forward as the council seeks a contractor to make the exciting design a reality.

Dudley Council is investing £15 million in the Pens Meadow School to be built on the site of the former Pensnett High School and is currently in the detailed design stage.

Once built, the school will provide education for 155 children and young people aged 3 to 19.

The purpose-built building will deliver better facilities for pupils with complex needs, including autism and those with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

It will have state-of-the-art art equipment, therapy rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, changing facilities, outdoor teaching and play areas, community group facilities, and 14 bespoke classrooms specifically designed to cater to children with additional needs.

The new school is being designed by the council’s project design and delivery team in corporate landlord services and the tender is due to go out in June with work expected to start on site this autumn. It is due to open in January 2026. Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council said: 

“Pens Meadow is a fantastic special school and this rebuild will offer the very best facilities.

“It is being designed to significantly improve the education for the children and young people and I’m delighted we are now nearing the point at which we can put the build out to tender.”

Mrs Marie Hunter, headteacher at Pens Meadow School, said:  “As a school community we are excited to be working with Dudley Council, architects and planners to ensure our new site provides the excellent environment and facilities our pupils and families deserve.

“We look forward to seeing the build commence and the project progressing.”