The founder of an independent school in Rode Heath for children with special educational needs has unveiled plans to expand her business.
Kirsty Woolridge established Wonder Star School last September at the Young People’s Community Centre in the village.
After a successful inaugural year – and with pupil numbers rising to 20 when the new term begins next month – she has announced plans to open the Wonder Star Futures college for 16- 25-year-olds next year in Crewe.
Ms Woolridge said the school’s success highlighted the increasing need for specialist placements from local authorities, alongside growing interest from families seeking smaller, personalised special needs provision.
Now, she is aiming to open the Wonder Star Futures college in January 2027, initially offering 30 places.
She said: “There is a clear need for high-quality specialist post-16 provision, helping young people with SEND make the transition between school and adulthood while remaining close to their local communities.
“We are currently finalising arrangements for the new college and are excited to be embarking on the next chapter for the business.”
The expansion followed Ms Woolridge’s acquisition of the remaining shares in the business, Wonderstar Learning, making her the sole owner and director.
She previously held 50% of the shares in the business and acquired the remaining 50% for an undisclosed sum.
She was advised on the transaction by Jen Goodwin, head of corporate at Staffordshire law firm Myers and Co.
Ms Goodwin said: “Kirsty has built an impressive education business in a relatively short space of time, and it’s been rewarding to support her through this important stage of its development.
“Acquiring the remaining shares has given Kirsty full ownership and control of the company, providing a strong platform for continued development as she looks to expand the specialist provision available to young people whose educational needs cannot be met in mainstream settings.”
Wonder Star School has 11 staff and caters mainly for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs and autism.
The school was praised by Ofsted following an inspection in May. Inspectors described it as “a small school with a big heart”, adding that it had a “genuine family feel where relationships are positive and nurturing, creating an atmosphere filled with smiles and laughter”.
