BRADFORD Council is looking for a sponsor to run a new school for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs.

Earlier this summer the council secured funding for a new school for 72 ten to 19-year-olds, and a 12-bed residential facility. The plan is for it to be built on the Rhodesway Playing Fields in Lower Grange.

The funding came from the Education and Skills Funding Agency, and a sponsor is needed to run it, as local councils are no longer allowed to open new schools.

On Friday the Council will share its vision with prospective sponsors at an event in the Ernest Saville Room in City Hall from 10am to 1pm.

Representatives from Social Care, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and neighbouring local education authorities will also be attending.

Applications to run the new school can be submitted at any time before noon on November 24.

Councillor Imran Khan, executive member for education, employment and skills, said: “This new free school will play a key role in our provision for pupils with special educational needs. We are looking for an organisation which can fulfill our vision for a school which provides whole life services based around excellent education, family care and work-life support.

"We believe this school can make a real difference to the lives of young people who will benefit from this support.”