Non-league club plans special school at stadium

A non-league football club has announced plans to open a special school which it said could be a "defining moment" for its future.

Corby Town, which plays in the Northern Premier League Midland Division, has faced financial difficulties with players and staff taking pay cuts earlier this season.

The club says it will operate under a new community interest company structure to "ensure that all decisions are made in the best interests of the wider community".

North Northamptonshire Council, which heads up education locally, said it had "been informed" of the club's intentions.

A meeting would be arranged between its officers and the club to "explore the matter further", a council spokesperson added.

In a statement, the club, nicknamed the Steelmen, said: "At the heart of this vision is not only enhanced football provision, but also the introduction of a dedicated SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) school, expanding opportunities for children with additional needs.

"The inclusion of a SEND school marks a significant milestone in the club's evolution, extending its impact beyond sport into education and social inclusion."

They continued: "Delivering this element requires the highest standards of governance, safeguarding, and operational clarity — all of which are central to the new structure being introduced."

As first reported by the NN Journal, it is unclear where any new school would be located within the club's existing facilities.

Reform-controlled North Northamptonshire Council previously stated that demand for SEND school places far exceeded the number currently available.

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