Investing in the future of learning
Major education capital projects represent a long-term commitment to improving the quality, safety, and sustainability of school environments across our borough. These projects go beyond routine maintenance. They involve large amounts of investment in new buildings, extensions, and major refurbishments. This supports educational excellence and community wellbeing.
Our capital projects are driven by a clear set of priorities:
- Modernisation: Replacing outdated facilities with energy-efficient, technologically advanced spaces that meet today’s educational standards
- Safety and accessibility: Enhancing the safety, security, and accessibility of school buildings for pupils, staff, and visitors
- Curriculum support: Delivering specialist spaces such as science labs, art studios, and sports facilities. This enables a broad and enriching curriculum.
- Community integration: Creating shared spaces that benefit both schools and the wider community. This includes performance halls and sports complexes.
What we deliver
Our Schools Capital Programme (and sometimes in partnership with the Department for Education), helps us deliver in 4 areas:
- New builds and extensions: From full school rebuilds to targeted expansions, we make sure facilities are fit for purpose and future-ready
- Condition and maintenance reports: Addressing urgent health and safety needs, improving energy efficiency, and extending the life of school buildings
- Special Education Needs provision: Expanding and enhancing facilities to support pupils with complex learning needs
- Decarbonisation initiatives: Installing solar panels, connecting schools to low-carbon heat networks, and supporting the council’s Climate Action Plan
Our approach
Led by the Schools Capital Delivery Team, our approach is collaborative and strategic:
- We work with school leaders, council departments, and external partners to make sure projects meet educational priorities and regulatory standards
- We manage projects from the start to completion and make sure of value for money, quality assurance, and minimal disruption to learning
- We look for funding opportunities and maintain strong relationships with the Department for Education and other stakeholders
Current projects
There are 2 major projects currently underway. They are the rebuild of Chace Community School and the expansion of Oaktree Special School to provide more SEN places.