In 2014, the existing rehabilitation center was transformed into a primary school for special education, featuring a generous green outdoor area. Ten years later, in a second phase, the building will be expanded with an upper floor designed as a low-stimulus environment for students with autism spectrum disorder.
At the same time, a new building will be constructed on the other side of the site to house a community school. In addition to six new classrooms and a sports hall, the new building will include space for the Ukkepuk daycare center, an upper floor for the administrative offices of the school network, and three social rental apartments. The project is a collaboration between the City of Zottegem, the Bernadette School, the Vrije Basisschool Grotenberge, and the Dender-Zuid Housing Association, bringing together affordable housing, education, sports, and culture. It is unique not only because of this social mix but also because the facilities will remain accessible after school hours.
