Secondary Expansion

As the local community of Upper Heyford continues to grow, with up to 8,000 new homes planned in the area, it is essential that we plan now to ensure educational provision meets future demand. In partnership with Oxfordshire County Council and the EPA Trust, the Governors of Heyford Park School are proposing a strategic expansion of our secondary phase (Key Stages 3 and 4) from two forms of entry to three.

About Heyford Park School

Heyford Park School is a thriving all-through school, educating pupils from 3 to 19 years of age. Since our establishment in 2013 and following our successful integration into EPA in 2020, we have grown steadily alongside our community. We are proud of our inclusive ethos, strong academic outcomes, and dedication to fostering ambition, character, and excellence in every pupil. In 2023, Ofsted recognised our commitment to high standards and effective leadership with a Good grading.

Currently, our provision is split across two sites: the Officers’ Mess and the Specialist Campus. While this model has served us well, we are now presented with a unique opportunity to realign and future proof our provision in response to both local development and educational need.

The Proposal

We are proposing the following changes:

• Expand the secondary phase (ages 11–16) from 2 forms of entry (60 pupils per year) to 3 forms of entry (90 pupils per year), starting from September 2027.
• Consolidate secondary provision primarily at the Officers’ Mess site, where new purpose-built specialist facilities for subjects such as Art and Design Technology will support a broader and deeper curriculum experience.
• Relocate the primary phase provision to the Specialist Campus, allowing younger pupils increased access to sports and outdoor learning facilities.

These proposals are designed to optimise the use of our estate, reduce operational inefficiencies, and ensure every learner benefits from well-resourced, age-appropriate, and inspiring learning environments.

Benefits of the Expansion

• Curriculum Enhancement: With all secondary provision located on one site, we can deliver a more cohesive curriculum experience; particularly in KS4, where access to varied options and facilities is vital for success.
• Specialist Facilities: Purpose-built classrooms will enhance teaching and learning in practical subjects, which have previously lacked dedicated space.
• Improved Primary Access: The relocation of primary provision to the Specialist Campus will give younger pupils greater access to sports fields, play areas, and tailored early years environments.
• Support for Growth: The expansion responds directly to the demographic increase in the region and ensures local families have access to high-quality education within their community. If further additional capacity is required in the longer term, EPA and the school will continue to support OCC in ensuring this can be provided in the most appropriate way.

Public Consultation Process

The consultation aims to seek public comments on the proposed expansion of the school and design proposals. Comments can be submitted online using the form at the base of this page. Alternatively, comment sheets are available in the school reception. 

The consultation period will run from Monday 23rd June to Friday 18th July. 

We will also host an information event to share plans in more detail and answer any questions on Monday 7th July at 16:30.

We would be most grateful for your feedback and comments relating to the proposed development at Heyford Park School. This will enable the design team to consider any issues raised ahead of making a planning application.

We may contact you to discuss your comments, please leave the contact details blank if you would prefer to remain anonymous.