It’s one of three new primary schools all opened in Hampshire this September, marking the county’s largest expansion of school places in recent memory. It forms part of the County Council’s ongoing investment in new school places to support growing communities across the county and ensure that all Hampshire children can access high-quality education close to home.
The school was officially opened by Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Colonel (Retd) Charles Ackroyd TD RD DL, who was joined by Councillor Roz Chadd, the County Council’s Cabinet Lead Member for Children’s Services, and representatives from Engage Enrich Excel Academies, the academy trust now responsible for running the school.
Councillor Chadd commented: “We were incredibly excited to open three brand-new primary schools back in September – a real landmark moment for those local communities and Hampshire as a whole. Now more than halfway into the autumn term, it’s been fantastic to come back to Hounsome Fields and see how the school has really come to life since then, with our first cohort of children fully settled in and enjoying all the exceptional facilities this incredible building has to offer. Thank you to everyone who has been part of shaping this very special first chapter in their educational journey.”
Hounsome Fields Primary School has capacity for 428 pupils and includes a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Resourced Provision, due to open in September 2026, for eight children with social, emotional and mental health needs. Resourced Provisions are specialist environments based within mainstream schools and allow children with additional needs to receive the tailored support they require while also accessing all the benefits of mainstream education. The school is currently operating with one class of Reception children and will grow incrementally each academic year, in line with the County Council’s sustainable approach to opening new schools.
The £14.55 million school was designed and project managed by the County Council’s Property Services team and delivered by contractor Willmott Dixon. Set over two-storeys, the building includes 14 classrooms, a hall, studio, SEN Resourced Provision, external play areas and two sports fields. It’s also designed to respond to climate change and is Hampshire’s first school to meet international Passivhaus standards, which recognise highly energy efficient buildings.
David Harris, Chief Executive of Engage Enrich Excel Academies, said: "The official opening of Hounsome Fields Primary School marks a truly landmark day for this wonderful community. The school stands as a symbol of collaboration and shared purpose. With heartfelt thanks to Hampshire County Council for their vision and partnership, and to Wilmott Dixon for their commitment in delivering this exceptional, world-class learning environment.”
Despite ongoing financial pressures, Hampshire County Council remains firmly committed to investing in the county’s educational estate. Wherever possible, funding for approved projects is sourced externally, including via developer contributions and central Government support. The County Council’s approach to providing school places, including where increases and reductions are needed, is set out in the School Places Plan 2025 to 2029.