Diverse Academies Trust, which already runs several schools in the area, has been chosen to sponsor a new 160-pupil special free school in Mansfield.

The new school, as reported in the News Journal last month, will be built on the former Ravensdale School site.

It is expected to open in 2025, providing a specialist learning environment for children and young people aged 7 to 19 with social, emotional and mental health needs.

David Cotton, the trust’s chief executive officer, said: “Together with Yeoman Park and Redgate Primary, Ravensdale will form a hub of special schools in the Mansfield area, providing a vital support network for our communities.

“Our children and young people are at the heart of everything we do. We have a skilful and caring team of people, who understand the importance of building strong relationships with children, their families, and a range of partners, so that each and every child feels secure, confident, and able to express themselves.

“It is a real privilege to be able to widen access to much-needed specialist education, and we look forward to working with our colleagues at Nottinghamshire County Council and to welcoming pupils to this new, purpose-built school in 2025.”

Cat Thornton, chief education officer at Diverse Academies, added: “Across our special schools, our highly-experienced teams are able to design a flexible curriculum that can meet the needs of every young person — so that each can gain the knowledge and skills required for day-to-day life and success into adulthood.”

The Ravensdale sponsor announcement follows developments at Yeoman Park Academy, Mansfield Woodhouse, which is also run by Diverse Academies Trust. Yeoman Park was identified as one of the first 50 for upgrading as part of the government’s 10-year, rebuilding programme for schools. It provides a highly-specialised education for young people with profound and multiple learning difficulties. Its new building is set to open in 2025.