Senior staff appointments at Harrogate's new specialist school hailed as 'significant milestone' for pupils

Key appointments have been announced at Harrogate’s new specialist school which is expected to provide up to 80 places for students.

Within hours of the confirmation of the opening date of the new Lighthouse School, the education trust running it revealed senior leadership appointments.

Located on the ex-Woodfield Primary School site in Harrogate, the senior staff appointments follow the signing of the school’s funding agreement with the Department for Education, which marks a significant milestone in the development of the new specialist school.

The new Harrogate school will meet the growing demand for specialist provision not just in the town but across North Yorkshire.

Preparations for the school’s opening in November will be led by newly appointed Principal Jo Tunnicliffe, who brings extensive experience of school leadership.

Jo will work alongside the newly appointed senior leadership team to establish a nurturing, ambitious and inclusive learning environment.

Executive Principal of Lighthouse Education Trust, Emma Sullivan, said: "We are delighted to have signed the funding agreement and lease for Lighthouse School Harrogate.

"This is a significant milestone in our journey to provide more specialist school places for autistic children and young people across the region.

"We have already secured some excellent appointments and are building a talented and dedicated team who share our vision and values.

"We are working closely with all our partners to ensure everything is in place for a successful opening."

The Lighthouse School will initially offer 24 places in 2026/27 but is expected to grow to an upper limit of 80 students.

Places will be allocated based upon careful assessment of individual children’s Education, Health and Care needs and the suitability of the school to meet assessed needs.

The school will offer a broad academic curriculum alongside personalised support to help every student thrive.

North Yorkshire Council’s Executive Member for Education, Learning and Skills, Coun Annabel Wilkinson, said: “It is fantastic to hear that senior staff appointments are now in place.

"We welcome Lighthouse Education Trust to North Yorkshire and look forward to seeing our children and young people benefit from this school for many years to come.”