Closed former school to reopen under new trust

Holy Family School, in Carlton, closed at the end of August

A former Catholic school is set to be brought back into use after being sold to a specialist education provider.

The Diocese of Leeds said Melrose Education has acquired the Holy Family Catholic High School site in Carlton, near Selby.

The school, which was run by the Bishop Konstant Catholic Academy Trust, officially closed at the end of August after its finances were hit by dwindling pupil numbers.

Melrose said it runs a growing number of schools helping children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Lesley Fitton, chief executive of the Bishop Konstant Trust, said: "The closure of Holy Family Catholic High School was deeply difficult for everyone connected to the school.

"We are pleased that Melrose Education's arrival represents a positive step in meeting the needs of young people locally who require high-quality specialist education, provision and support."

The trust said it had worked with North Yorkshire and East Riding councils to ensure pupils were found alternative school places from this month.

Melrose Education said the sale was part of an expansion which would help rising numbers of children with SEND needs.

Chief executive Tracey Storey said: "We are delighted to be joining the community in Carlton and to continue the site's education tradition by providing specialist provision and support for children and young people.

"We look forward to becoming a trusted part of the community and to supporting young people in achieving their potential."

Melrose said it would work with North Yorkshire Council over the coming months to prepare the school for its future use, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

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