Ysgol Llyn Derw in the Vale of Glamorgan is designed for students with additional learning needs and is located near Cosmeston Country Park.
It was created in response to a growing need for specialist post-16 education in the area.
The facility is an additional site for Ysgol y Deri in Penarth, which was the subject of the BBC documentary, A Special School.
Councillor Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council cabinet member for education, arts, and the Welsh language, said: “The opening of Ysgol Llyn Derw marks an important milestone for education in the Vale of Glamorgan and, most importantly, for the pupils and families who will benefit from this outstanding new facility.
“The demand for specialist ALN provision has grown significantly, and this new sixth form site will provide much-needed additional capacity while ensuring that pupils with complex needs can access a high-quality learning environment designed around their individual needs.”
She added: “It is also particularly fitting that the school has been named by pupils themselves, reflecting the importance of putting young people at the heart of this development.
“Ysgol Llyn Derw builds on the success and ethos of Ysgol y Deri, creating further opportunities for young people to learn, develop their independence, and prepare for their futures.”
The school is part of the council’s collaboration with the Welsh Government through the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which aims to expand specialist education provision across Wales.
Anna Brychan, Welsh Government cabinet minister for education and the Welsh language, also praised the new centre.
Ms Brychan said: “It was a pleasure to visit Ysgol Llyn Derw and see this fantastic example of inclusive school design giving pupils the state-of-the-art facilities and supportive environment they deserve.
“This £22 million investment, with its commitment to Net Zero Carbon, reflects our Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme and our determination to ensure every learner can thrive.
“I wish staff, learners, and the wider community every success as they begin this new chapter beneath a truly impressive new roof.”
Delivered in partnership with contractors Morgan Sindall, the two-storey building has been designed to prioritise pupil wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
Features include solar panels, green roofs, and dedicated wildlife habitats.
Ground-floor classrooms open onto outdoor learning spaces, while upper-floor rooms offer natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
The school will support students beyond the age of 16, helping them build independence and prepare for adulthood in a purpose-built environment.
