West Berkshire Schools Shine with New Upgrades

West Berkshire Council has been busy improving school buildings and facilities across the district this summer, with a push on specialist SEND provision.

Spurcroft Primary got specialist early years SEND accommodation for Dingley's Promise costing £150,000, with finishing touches to the netball courts completed during the holidays.

A feasibility study at Westwood Farm Infant and Junior School is looking to expand severe learning difficulties provision into Key Stage 2, creating a specialist learning environment from early years to Year 6. The project is currently budgeted at £1.2m.

Summer work also included a new £828,000 early years facility at Thatcham Park providing dedicated space for 45 children, and a £4.6m project at Falkland Primary replacing eight modular classrooms with a modern two-storey building. Internal finishing and utilities are progressing; the new facilities will be completed in September and ready for pupils in October.

Brookfields Special School had accessibility improvements costing £690,000, and the council has adjusted the car park and garden to prepare for a £1.6m expansion in 2027 that will add teaching accommodation.

Victoria Park Nursery received new safeguarding and security fencing at a cost of £38,245, and Burghfield St Mary's is finishing work to replace the school hall floor at an investment of £115,607.

"While pupils, families and school staff have been enjoying a well-earned summer break, a huge amount of work has been taking place behind the scenes to improve school facilities across West Berkshire."

"These projects range from brand-new accommodation and school expansions to accessibility improvements, security upgrades and specialist SEND provision."

"Together, they will help ensure our children and young people have safe, inclusive and high-quality environments in which to learn and thrive."

"I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering these projects over the summer and wish all pupils and staff a successful start to the new academic year."

Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter