New special school planned for Eastleigh

The new 125-place academy in the Boorley Gardens residential development will cater for children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, and is set to open in September 2026. The build will be funded through the Children’s Services Capital Programme. 

Children with SEMH needs often face challenges in managing their emotions, forming and maintaining relationships, and coping with everyday stress. Specialist educational support for SEMH pupils offers help to develop coping strategies, improve their emotional wellbeing and enhance their social skills. The new school, to be called Luminous Oak, will provide specialist education for children aged eight to 16 years old. 

Luminous Oak Special School – named by current pupils at the academy trust and inspired by a large oak tree adjacent to the site – is part of the County Council’s Special Educational Needs Sufficiency Strategy 2023-2027, aimed at meeting the growing demand for SEMH school places in the Eastleigh area. The school will help reduce the need for out-of-county placements and associated transport costs.  

Councillor Steve Forster, Executive Member for Education, said: “We are committed to providing high-quality education for all children in Hampshire. This new special school will ensure that children with SEMH needs receive the support and education they deserve, closer to home, while delivering the best value for money.”  

The new school will feature a two-storey building with 15 classrooms, specialist practical classrooms, therapy rooms, a fitness suite, and various other facilities.  Outside will include play areas, a sensory courtyard, a multi-use games court, and parking facilities. 

Luminous Oak will be managed by Solent Academies Trust, selected through a competitive process by the County Council and subject to approval from the Department for Education. The academy trust will be responsible for the building’s management, maintenance, and insurance. 

Sharon Burt, Chief Executive Officer, Solent Academies Trust, said, “It’s very exciting to have the spend approved by Hampshire County Council and to see our new special free school in Boorley Green take the next step towards starting construction, subject to final planning consent. 

“We believe in the power of education to positively transform the lives of children and their families. Everybody at the Trust is committed to ensuring all pupils experience an enjoyable, personalised and meaningful curriculum. 

“As such, we very much look forward to working with young people across the area and to providing the best possible educational experience for them in a school where they can thrive and be happy.” 

A planning application was submitted in November 2024, with a decision expected in March 2025. If approved, the construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2025 and complete by Summer 2026.