Flagship Post-16 SEND Hub opens for first cohort of learners

A new, flagship post-16 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) hub, the first of its kind in Wokingham Borough, has taken a significant step forward as building work has completed.

The new hub is called The Glade and located at the former Wokingham Library site in Denmark Street, in the heart of Wokingham town centre. It is being delivered by Activate Learning, an award-winning education and training group with colleges in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey. 

Before the start of the new term, Wokingham Borough Council handed the building’s keys over to Activate Learning. 

Executive member for children’s services, and deputy leader of the council, Cllr Prue Bray said: “The handover of the keys to Activate Learning marks a significant milestone in our commitment to ensuring more children and young people with SEND can access the specialist support they need close to home. 

“We are delighted that The Glade is already supporting its first learners, having opened in September, and we look forward to seeing it grow to accommodate 40 learners by 2028. This is a fantastic investment in the future of SEND education in Wokingham Borough and a step towards creating more opportunities for local families.”

Group Director of Lifeskills at Activate Learning, Michelle Parks said: “Young people with SEND should be able to see a future for themselves within their own community. The Glade will help make that possible, delivering on our strategic ambition to extend specialist education where it is needed most.

“The Glade will draw on all the outstanding expertise that sits behind our high needs provision, helping learners to develop their strengths, and help them to meet their aspirations.

“Whether their ambition is to gain qualifications, move into paid work or live more independently, The Glade will provide the support and challenge to help them achieve it.”

About The Glade

The Glade will support 40 young people aged 16 to 25 years old who: 

• have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) 
• are moving into Year 12 and may have faced additional barriers to education or future opportunities for training and employment (e.g. difficult life experiences, learning needs or mental health challenges)  
• need extra support to build their skills and reach their potential and to prepare for adulthood 

It will offer a bespoke curriculum tailored to each individual, with three pathways designed to help learners thrive in a programme shaped around their needs and aspirations. The pathways are: 

• Engagement – building confidence, independence and readiness for learning
• Employment – including Supported Internships and preparation for paid work
• Academic progression – supporting learners to achieve recognised qualifications

Inside The Glade, there are academic, multi-skills, serenity, creative and digital, care and health rooms, an agile workspace, breakout spaces, a gym, staffroom, toilets and the Broadleaf Café.  

Students from Activate Learning chose the hub’s name, The Glade. A ‘glade’ is an open area in a forest; a place where the canopy opens to let light in. The name also honours Wokingham town’s historic roots as the administrative centre of Windsor Forest, while reflecting a modern, bright and welcoming approach to SEND education.

Attend an open evening

Activate Learning are inviting young people to visit The Glade at an opening event on Wednesday 14 October, 4.30pm to 7pm to explore the newly renovated campus and facilities, meet the friendly teachers, tutors and student support staff, and apply for a course. Sign up on the Eventbrite website. 

Official opening coming soon

An official opening of The Glade is due to take place later this year.