We invite residents to have their say on our proposed new 0 to 25 years Education Sufficiency Strategy: The Right Place for Every Child: (2026 to 2031).
The public consultation will run from Friday 1 May until Friday 24 July 2026.
It is open to Bracknell Forest residents and education stakeholders. The aim of this consultation is to help you understand our proposed approach and share your feedback.
Give feedback on the proposed education sufficiency strategy
Other ways to give us feedback
During the consultation you can also give us feedback by:
- email: cando@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
- post: Richard Skegg, Education and Learning (People Directorate), Bracknell Forest Council, Time Square, Market Street, Bracknell, RG12 1JD
Why we are proposing this new strategy
It can feel overwhelming navigating early years provision, school placements, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and post-16 provision. Local community changes can add to the complexity.
Our 5-year vision for education provision in Bracknell Forest is simple. We want every child and young person to have access to the right education, in the right place, at the right time.
It can take a long time to build brand-new mainstream schools. It can sometimes harm existing local schools too. So instead, our priority is to make the absolute best, most creative use of the excellent schools we already have.
We do need 2 new SEND schools. Hawthorn Academy and Forest View are for those children and young people who need a place outside of mainstream schools.
Our guiding philosophies
Everything we plan is built on these core pillars:
Inclusive foundations from the start
Every child deserves nurturing, flexible early years care.
Equity of access across all phases (fair access for all)
Wherever you live or whatever your background, you should have fair and timely access to a great education.
The right place, not just a place
Success is not just about having an empty seat. It's about providing safe, supportive and inspiring places to learn.
Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision rooted in need, not labels
For young people with SEND, we want to provide support based on what the child actually needs to thrive, rather than just waiting for a specific medical diagnosis.
Sustainable and climate-conscious planning (a green future)
We want to plan for school places so more children can walk or cycle, reducing the need for long, tiring car or bus journeys.
Adaptability and resilience in planning (ready for "what ifs")
Our communities are changing. Our plans need to be flexible enough to handle unexpected changes, population shifts or new government rules.
Collaborative leadership and partnership (working together)
Went want to work with schools, families and academy trusts when planning to meet the needs of our community.
Empowered transitions into adulthood
Working with partners, our post-16 education choices will prepare our young people for lifelong success.