CONSTRUCTION work on a £4.4 million extension to a SEND in Woodley is now approaching completion.

The new single-storey building extension to The Addington School, Woodlands Avenue, is now entering the final stages of fitting-out, increasing the school's capacity by 50 additional students.

The school specialises in working with students that have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and the increase in capacity means that fewer SEND students have to commute outside of the borough to study.

The new building will feature four classrooms, a cafe, and social areas.

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Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services, said: “I’m delighted to see the Addington School expansion nearing completion and us opening its doors over the next few months.

"We’re determined to provide fantastic educational facilities for our SEND young people and with 50 places soon to be opened at the Ofsted-rated outstanding Addington, and more on the way at the new school in Winnersh, we’re providing the space to do this."

It was announced last month the Maiden Erlegh Trust would be operating an entirely new free school, The Oak Tree School, which will be based in Winnersh.

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The SEND school, set to hold 150 spaces, will be constructed in partnership between Wokingham Borough Council, Reading Borough Council and Brighter Futures.

Sara Attra, headteacher at Addington School, said: “Everyone at Addington School is excited to see the finishing touches being put to our new building.

"The building will perfectly fit the needs of our sixth form students and staff as well as allowing us to provide an outstanding education to even more young people in Wokingham borough.

"Our sixth form students can’t wait to use the excellent facilities in their new home and we are all looking forward to the day when we can cut the ribbon and officially open the building in the new school year.”

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According to the Wokingham Borough Council, up to 70 per cent of construction work will be completed off-site, to reduce disruption to students.

Claire Wakelin, Studio Director at HLM Architects, added: “This expansion means that more local children are able to take advantage of the great educational offerings at Addington School without having to travel far from their homes.

“The team worked hard to create a safe and nurturing environment that both inspires and brings a sense of place, helping future pupils achieve their best potential.

"Working with our partners at Reds10 also meant we were able to optimise sustainability across the construction phase.

"Our commitment to using the most eco-friendly materials throughout also helps ensure site longevity with minimal environmental impact.”

An official opening on the new building and other facilities will take place in due course during the autumn.