The Gloucestershire Academy for Inspirational Learning (GAIL) will provide 200 places for children aged four to 16 with moderate and additional learning difficulties, including autism and speech, language and communication needs.
The new facility is set to open in January 2027 in Gloucester and aims to deliver high-quality, inclusive specialist education closer to home for families across the county.
Kelly-Leigh Kulyk has been appointed headteacher of GAIL and will lead the setup and opening of the school.
Tom Leverage, chief executive of Reach South Academy Trust, said: “We are delighted to appoint Kelly-Leigh as headteacher of GAIL.
“She brings exceptional experience, clarity of vision and a strong moral purpose that aligns closely with our values as a trust.
“Her leadership will be central to creating a school rooted in belonging and aspiration and we are excited to work alongside her as GAIL comes to life.”
Ms Kulyk was appointed by a board of educational specialists from the Reach South executive team, alongside a representative from Gloucestershire County Council.
She will work closely with the trust, local authorities, families and professionals to establish what the trust describes as “a nurturing and aspirational learning environment.”
Her career in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has seen her support children with autism, severe learning difficulties, and social, emotional and mental health needs.
Reach South said she is “passionate about ensuring that every child receives the support, care and opportunities they need to thrive, and about creating inclusive environments that prepare young people well for their future pathways.”
She has held senior leadership positions and is “widely recognised for her commitment to, and belief in, the transformative impact of excellent SEND provision.”
Under her leadership, her current school was named Secondary School of the Year at the Education Awards.
She also contributed to the establishment of another new special school in a different local authority area.
In the coming months, Ms Kulyk will begin working with families and professionals to shape the ethos and culture of the new school ahead of its 2027 launch.
Reach South Academy Trust is committed to providing an inclusive education that removes barriers for all children, especially the most vulnerable, and drives social mobility through consistently high standards in achievement, social and communication skills, critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of society.
The trust said: “Reach South schools serve and reflect their local communities, raising aspirations for families as well as pupils, while nurturing belief in every child’s potential and preparing tomorrow’s adults to contribute to social, economic, environmental and cultural sustainability.”
