A new sixth-form centre for Isle of Wight children with special educational needs and/or disabilities has opened in Newport.

A ribbon cutting ceremony took place this week, at St George's School.

Headteacher, Sue Holman, said the 'The View' will provide bespoke facilities for up to 50 young people.

The Isle of Wight Council-funded £1 million site has five new classrooms, a hair and beauty studio, a food technology room and a common room, as well as outdoor facilities.

Isle of Wight County Press: Headteacher Sue Holman cutting the ribbon at the new St George's Sixth Form.Headteacher Sue Holman cutting the ribbon at the new St George's Sixth Form.

Mrs Holman said: "We are thrilled to be able to offer our older students the opportunity to learn in a bespoke setting where they can build on their achievements in the main school and prepare for their futures as successful and fulfilled adults.

"The students are so happy with the facility."

Based on the ex-Clatterford tuition site, one main building and three modular units have been refurbished.

The student council said: "We have wanted a separate sixth form area for many years and this year we finally got one.

"Now everyone has moved in we have a lot more space.

"It is not as crowded as being in main school and everything we need is in the same area like at the college.

"It is a much more grown up space, it is shiny and new and everything works.

"We are very proud of The View and feel very lucky to have a space just for sixth form and want to thank everyone who worked hard to get it for us."

Isle of Wight County Press: Inside The View (photo by the Isle of Wight Council).Inside The View (photo by the Isle of Wight Council).

Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children's services, education and lifelong skills, said the centre would help meet the growing demand for special school places on the Island and support the post-16 SEN strategy.

She said: "Expanding St George's School in this way will give more children and young people access to the best possible SEND education.

"It provides the school's dedicated staff with the very best facilities to support young people reach their full potential, gaining greater independence and employability skills as they enter adulthood and help bridge the gap between education and employment."