Government approves new special needs school for Whiteley

More children with severe learning difficulties (SLD) are set to benefit from specialist school places following confirmation from Government that dedicated funding is to be made available for a new special school in Whiteley

Feb 25 2025

The Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed Hampshire County Council can deliver the new special school, to be called Windmill Academy. 

Subject to planning approval, construction will begin on the new school estimated to cost £18 million, one of 16 directly funded as part of a wider national initiative to create 60,000 additional places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Windmill Academy will teach 135 pupils aged 4 to 19 from September 2028. 

Councillor Steve Forster, Executive Member for Education, said: “Over recent years, the demand for SEND provision has significantly increased, placing immense pressure on our resources. We are committed to expanding our services across the county to meet this growing need, ensuring that all children have access to high-quality education.” 

“We are delighted therefore to have the green light to progress towards the construction of Windmill Academy in partnership with Solent Academies Trust. Our existing direct collaboration with this Trust, through Luminous Oak – a new special school in Eastleigh set to open in 2026 – has been positive and we look forward to continuing this successful partnership as we develop Windmill Academy.” 

Sharon Burt, Chief Executive Officer of Solent Academies Trust, said: "We are thrilled to receive approval from the Department for Education for our new special free school in Whiteley. This marks a significant milestone for both our Trust and the community. 

“At Solent Academies Trust, we are driven by the belief that education has the power to transform lives. Our dedicated team is focused on creating a nurturing environment where every student can access a curriculum tailored to their individual needs, ensuring they feel valued and engaged. We look forward to building strong partnerships with families in the area, providing a supportive space where young people can thrive and be happy.” 

Additionally, the DfE has indicated funding support for a third new special school in Hampshire, which will cater to 125 pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The location for this school is yet to be determined.