Planning approval successfully granted for Foxwood Academy
Noviun Architects is pleased to share that planning approval for Foxwood Academy 2 has been secured, marking an important milestone for the new purpose-built secondary SEND school in Bramcote.
The approval marks an important step towards transforming the vacant former Bramcote School site into a specialist learning environment for 150 pupils aged 11 to 18.
Planning has been approved for Foxwood Academy 2, a purpose-built secondary SEND school for 150 pupils in Bramcote.
Expanding specialist SEND provision in Nottinghamshire
Foxwood Academy 2 will form part of the wider Foxwood Academy campus, creating a new secondary provision alongside the existing primary school.
The development will allow primary-aged pupils to remain within the existing Foxwood Academy building, while secondary and sixth-form pupils move into a purpose-built environment designed around an age-appropriate curriculum.
Together, the two settings will create a clearer progression from primary to secondary education, supporting pupils as they develop greater independence and prepare for adulthood.
The additional places will also help respond to the growing need for high-quality specialist education across Nottinghamshire.
Foxwood Academy 2 designed around pupil needs
The design has been developed around an X-shaped arrangement, with teaching wings organised by key stage and pathway. This creates distinct identities within the school while keeping shared facilities accessible and easy to navigate, with plans being clear and logical.
All key teaching spaces are located at ground-floor level to support mobility. Pathway 1 classrooms have been future-proofed for hoist provision, group rooms sit directly alongside classrooms and staff bases are positioned to support passive supervision.
Each teaching wing also provides direct access to secure outdoor learning and play spaces, helping pupils move comfortably between internal and external environments.
Foxwood Academy 2 will provide a purpose-built secondary SEND environment for 150 pupils aged 11–18 in Bramcote.
Supporting learning and preparation for adulthood
Foxwood Academy 2 will provide 16 classrooms alongside specialist teaching spaces, a multipurpose hall, dining facilities, external classrooms and a multi-use games area.
A dedicated Vocational Food Building will support practical learning, while the Preparation for Adulthood building will recreate a domestic environment where pupils can develop skills including cooking, cleaning and independent living.
These spaces will help the school deliver a broad curriculum while supporting pupils to build confidence and prepare for life beyond education.
A calm and sustainable landscape
The school has been carefully arranged within its mature landscape setting, retaining existing trees, woodland edges and grassland wherever possible.
Outdoor classrooms, sensory play areas, walking and cycling routes, rain gardens, habitat areas and species-rich planting will create a calm, biodiverse environment with strong connections to nature.
The proposals also incorporate a biosolar roof with photovoltaic panels, sustainable drainage and ambitions for Net Zero Carbon in Operation.
The welcoming main entrance has been designed to provide a clear and accessible arrival for pupils, staff and visitors.
A collaborative design process
Noviun Architects is providing architectural and lead designer services for the project.
The design has been developed collaboratively with Morgan Sindall, Nottinghamshire County Council, White Hills Park Trust, Foxwood Academy and the wider consultant team.
Throughout the process, the shared ambition has been to create an inclusive and aspirational school that responds directly to how pupils learn, move and thrive.
Planning approval for Foxwood Academy 2
Securing planning approval represents a significant milestone for Foxwood Academy 2 and everyone involved in developing the proposals.
We’re proud to have played our part in bringing the project to this stage and look forward to continuing our work with the school, trust, client and wider project team as the scheme progresses towards delivery.
Once completed, Foxwood Academy 2 will provide a carefully considered specialist learning environment where young people can flourish, develop greater independence and reach their full potential.
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