West Berkshire Council is pleased to announce the official opening of Barbury House, the new expansion at The Castle School in Newbury, providing 32 additional Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) places for children and young people aged 2–19 with complex needs.

Named after Barbury Castle, the historic hillfort in Wiltshire, the new building has been designed to enhance the school’s capacity and provide high-quality learning environments tailored to the needs of its pupils. Alongside the additional places, Barbury House includes new breakout and group rooms, creating flexible spaces that will support learning, wellbeing and personalised care.

The expansion represents a significant investment in specialist education provision within West Berkshire, helping more children and young people access the support they need closer to home. In addition to improving outcomes for pupils and families, each placement is expected to save around £80,000 per year compared to out-of-district alternatives.

Councillor Heather Codling, Deputy Leader of West Berkshire Council and Executive Member for Children and Family Services, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to see Barbury House officially open. This wonderful new building offers such a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment where children and young people can learn, develop and truly thrive. It will also give families real confidence that the specialist support their children need is available close to home. My sincere thanks go to everyone who has worked so hard to bring this project to life.”

Jon Hewitt, Headteacher at The Castle School, said: “We are delighted to see Barbury House officially open and to welcome this wonderful new facility into The Castle School community. This expansion will make a real difference to our pupils and families, providing high-quality, flexible spaces where children and young people with complex needs can learn, grow and thrive. We are grateful to West Berkshire Council and all those who have helped bring this project to life, strengthening specialist SEND provision for families across West Berkshire.”

The project forms part of West Berkshire Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening local educational provision and ensuring that children and young people with SEND can access the right support, in the right place, at the right time.