South Craven School has a new facility which will mainly specialise in helping pupils with autism.

The extended Learning Support base, which will be known as ‘A1’, was formally opened by Cynthia Welbourne, director of education for North Yorkshire, and local MP Julian Smith.

A spokesman for the school said: “Learning Support is housed in what was until last year the Airedale Kitchen.

“This area of the school has been transformed into specially-designed workspaces where students can receive appropriate support through one-to-one tuition or small study groups.

“There is a ‘chill out room’ for when a student needs a quiet space and a kitchen to develop life skills. There are also three offices, one of which can be used by students who need individual help. It can also be a space in which pupils can work independently.”