The school has been expanded and refurbished so it can offer places for up to 120 pupils, aged four to 19, who have complex needs.

The new facilities include therapy and sensory spaces, as well as specialist provision for art, drama and music, design technology and cooking, and vocational facilities such as a hairdressing salon and a construction unit.

The school’s approach, backed by research into trauma and attachment, is to develop the whole child, building self esteem and confidence and removing barriers to learning.

Headteacher Peter Headeach said: “Staff work hard to build strong, positive relationships and model positive attitudes and behaviours. This provides an environment where the children can feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

“Through the curriculum, students can develop their social and communication skills, as well as their ability to regulate their emotions through learning activities that are broad and engaging.

“The choice of courses, support offered by staff and broader opportunities offered by this expansion mean children and young people at Aspire have never had such a fantastic opportunity to succeed as they do today.”

The expansion of Aspire Academy, which is run by the academy trust, Futura Learning Partnership, was funded by B&NES Council and approved by the Regional Schools Commissioner.