The school build has been designed and managed by Hampshire County Council’s in-house Property Services team and delivered on the ground by Tilbury Douglas. Named by children in the wider academy trust and inspired by a large oak tree next to the site, its features include specialist teaching areas, calm sensory spaces, therapy rooms, and outdoor learning areas.
Councillor Roz Chadd, Cabinet Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is an exciting moment for local families and continues our commitment to providing high-quality education for all children in Hampshire, including those with special educational needs (SEN).
“This new school responds to growing demand for SEMH provision in the local area and will support more children with these very particular needs to receive the tailored support and education they deserve, much closer to home.
“A huge thank you to all those involved including our Property Services and Children’s Services teams, our construction partners at Tilbury Douglas, and everyone at Solent Academies Trust. The school is a vibrant, thoughtfully created space designed with pupils’ needs fully in mind, and will inspire future generations for many years to come.”
The new school comes as demand for specialist support across Hampshire continues to rise and has been shaped in consultation with special educational needs experts to ensure it meets pupils’ diverse needs. The two-storey building includes:
- 21 classrooms
- Separate wings for primary and secondary-aged pupils, each with secure entrances and tailored outdoor play areas
- A high needs facility known as the ‘Acorn Suite’ featuring a dedicated secure courtyard with play equipment
- Therapy and group rooms, fitness suite, and shared assembly and dining halls
- A multi-use games court
Sharon Burt, Chief Executive of Solent Academies Trust, said: “Opening the doors of Luminous Oak Academy is a truly special moment for our Trust and, most importantly, for our new pupils and their families.
“We have created a school where every child will feel safe, valued and understood, while being supported to discover their strengths, build confidence and achieve their aspirations. We are incredibly proud to welcome our first pupils and begin this exciting journey with them.
“My sincere thanks go to everyone who has worked so hard and collaboratively to bring this wonderful school to life. We look forward to seeing our children flourish here for many years to come.”
(Image credit: Noviun Architects)