A new specialist school for autistic young people has been approved in Harrogate, following support from families, professionals and the local community.
Lighthouse Education Trust plans to open Lighthouse School, Harrogate in the next academic year, providing up to 80 places for students aged 11 to 19.
The school will be based on the former Woodfield Primary School site and will offer a specialist environment to support autistic young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally, while also preparing them for adulthood.
The plans follow a public consultation, with 97 per cent of respondents supporting the proposal, highlighting clear demand for specialist provision in the area.
Many families currently have to travel significant distances to access suitable provision, placing additional pressure on young people and their carers.
Building on the success of Lighthouse School Leeds, the Harrogate school will deliver a tailored, student-centred approach, combining a broad and ambitious curriculum with wellbeing and communication support, alongside preparation for life beyond school.
Students will benefit from small class sizes, personalised timetables and a calm, structured environment. They will also have access to speech and language therapy as well as opportunities to develop independence, employability and life skills.
The school is expected to open initially to Year 7 and Year 8 pupils, growing gradually to full capacity.
Executive Principal, Emma Sullivan, said:
We are incredibly proud to be bringing Lighthouse School to Harrogate. There is a clear need for specialist provision that is designed for autistic young people to succeed.
By focusing on each individual’s strengths and ambitions, we support every student and build the confidence, knowledge, skills and independence they need for their next steps.
Consultation feedback highlighted a gap in local provision, particularly for academically able autistic pupils who may not thrive in mainstream settings.
Lighthouse Education Trust has committed to opening the school in a phased way, ensuring high-quality provision from the outset, supported by experienced colleagues and strong partnerships across North Yorkshire.
- Lighthouse School, Harrogate is a new specialist free school for autistic young people aged 11 to 19, run by Lighthouse Education Trust.
- The school will be located on the former Woodfield Primary School site in Harrogate.
- It will provide up to 80 places and will open initially to Year 7 and Year 8 pupils, growing gradually to full capacity.
- Places will be allocated by North Yorkshire Council through Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
- The school will build on the existing Lighthouse School Leeds model, offering a broad curriculum alongside specialist support including speech and language therapy and preparation for adulthood.
- A statutory consultation took place between December 2025 and February 2026, with 97 per cent of respondents supporting the proposal.
