A New Chapter for SEND Education: Broomfield SILC Launches at White Rose Park

Last week, we were thrilled to welcome our friends and tenants, Broomfield SILC, as they officially launched their incredible “Future Steps Hub” here at White Rose Park.

This brand-new facility is all about expanding opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), marking a huge step forward for both Broomfield and the wider community in meeting the growing need for inclusive education. Keep reading for a few of our highlights from the day:

Celebrating the day’s events

The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Kathryn Bryan, Broomfield’s Head Teacher, who took a moment to thank everyone who made the Future Steps Hub possible. She shared how important the hub will be, especially in relocating Post-16 students to free up space at the Belle Isle site for younger learners. It’s a big milestone toward meeting the growing demand for SEND placements in the area.

Next up, Eddie Gray, former Leeds United manager, and Mark Seward, MP for Leeds South West and Morley, took the stage for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially kicking off an exciting new chapter for Broomfield SILC.

Guests were then treated to guided tours of the space, where they got an inside look at the hub’s thoughtfully designed classrooms, living suites, and enterprise areas. The facilities really showcase Broomfield’s dedication to creating a supportive environment where students can thrive and get ready for life after education.

Attendees also joined in on some interactive learning sessions, getting a sneak peek at the workshops that will help students build practical skills for the future. Another important chat was all about jobs and careers for SEND students, with Broomfield’s team calling on local businesses to offer work placements, internships, and career pathways to help these students succeed.

To wrap up the day, Broomfield’s leadership took the floor to thank everyone involved and share their excitement about the hub’s potential to make a real difference for both the students and the wider community.

All in all, the launch of this new facility is a fantastic example of how collaboration and vision can make a real difference. We’re incredibly proud to support Broomfield SILC in their mission to empower students and help build a more inclusive future for everyone.