The future of a Bracknell school is being put at risk after it was decided that it no longer meets the needs of children and young people across the borough.  

College Hall Pupil Referral Unit is a centre for young people in Key Stages 3 and 4 who have experienced difficulty in maintaining a place in mainstream education.

After being deemed inadequate by Ofsted during its latest inspection in July 2023, the Management Committee has advised the Department for Education that it considers the school to be no longer financially viable.

The Ofsted cited poor outcomes for children and young people at the school.

A consultation period for the proposed closure of the referral unit in Bracknell Forest started on Monday, March 11 and will end on Wednesday, April 24.

According to Bracknell Forest Council, the decision to start a public consultation came after talks with key stakeholders, including parents of College Hall Students.

If the closure is agreed the 27 current students will make an educational transition to another school or referral unit.

Year 11 students will complete their education at College Hall, with personalised plans for post-16 education.

Cllr Roy Bailey, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “In December 2023, the College Hall management committee agreed that the provision was no longer financially viable.

“Following the public consultation period, if the closure is agreed, it is hoped the finances allocated to College Hall PRU will be better used to enhance the overall educational provision for children in the local area, including a new social, emotional, mental health (SEMH) school.

“This aligns with our vision for children and young people to achieve their full potential in their early years, at school and in college and lead happy and fulfilled lives. Further information will be available in due course.”