A school on the outskirts of Sandbach for children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) opens its new state-of-the-art all-weather pitch next week.

The official opening of Cruyff Court, named after the legendary Dutch footballer and coach Johan Cruyff, at Cheshire Hall School will take place on Wednesday (30 September).

The school opened in summer 2025 and provides children and young people aged eight to 16 with Special Educational Needs (SEN), including ADHD, autism, speech, language and communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health needs, with a new opportunity to engage in learning.

Supported by an onsite Clinical Services Team, they receive specialist, integrated support tailored to their individual needs, helping them thrive both academically and personally.

For the event, the school community will welcome representatives from the Johan Cruyff Foundation, the global charity established by legendary Dutch footballer and coach Johan Cruyff.

The new facility forms part of the Foundation's mission to empower children and young people through sport and play and will be officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a friendly match to give pupils the opportunity to showcase their skills, confidence and teamwork.

Paul Lyons, head teacher said:"This partnership further strengthens our commitment to providing a rich and well-rounded specialist education.

"The Court is an extension of our inspiring learning environment, creating opportunities for pupils to develop physically, socially and emotionally.

"Through team-based activities, pupils can build cooperation, resilience and confidence, develop friendships and life skills, and enjoy new experiences that extend beyond the classroom."

Niels Meijer, Director of the Cruyff Foundation, commented: "A Cruyff Court gives children with special needs the space to play, be active and enjoy sport together.

"At Cheshire Hall School, this Court offers children the opportunity to take part in sport in a way that suits them, while having fun and developing new skills. We are very proud to realise this Special Cruyff Court together with the Witherslack Group and grateful to everyone who made this possible."

The Foundation supports and develops impactful sports and play projects in more than 20 countries worldwide, where children can practice a variety of sports.

Would you like to know more about Sandbach?

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Sandbach Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

Please consider following Sandbach Nub News on Facebook or Twitter

We also have a weekly newsletter with the TOP FIVE stories of the week - sign up here

Want to know more about Sandbach?

Sign up for our newsletter here

You can also follow us for daily updates on Facebook here and X (Twitter) here