Villa Real School in Consett received a donation of £57,000 from the Mark Benevolent Fund for the vehicle, after the Mark Master Masons of Durham applied for the funding on its behalf.
Villa Real is a mixed day school for children and young people aged from two to 19 who have severe, profound, medical, and complex learning difficulties, with some pupils also living with autism spectrum disorder or cerebral palsy.
The school’s previous minibus was no longer usable, and replacing it was costly due to the required special adaptations.
The Mark Master Masons of Durham applied to the organisation’s national fund, which supports worthy causes with prompt assistance.
Jill Bowes, headteacher at Villa Real School, said: “The minibus enables pupils with complex learning difficulties and limited mobility to attend enrichment activities and integrate into our communities in ways that would otherwise be impossible.
“This includes taking part in volunteering and social action projects that help to boost their confidence.
“We’re very grateful to our local freemasons and the Mark Benevolent Fund for covering the cost of our new minibus.”
Members of the Mark Masons of Durham were joined by Graeme Hutchinson, of the Mark Benevolent Fund, at an official presentation event at the school.
Mr Hutchinson said: “After assessing the application and learning about the positive difference the minibus would make, we were only too happy to help.
“The presentation of this minibus has been possible due to the amazing and continual support and donations of the Mark Masons.”