Surrey County Council has confirmed that London South East Academies Trust (LSEAT) will be the official sponsor for the establishment of a new specialist school in Surrey Heath. Frimley Oak Academy, slated to open in 2027, will cater to pupils aged 11-19 with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Funded in part by Surrey County Council’s Capital Programme and supported by the Department for Education’s Special Free Schools Programme, Frimley Oak Academy aims to provide around 60 additional specialist school places in its first year, with projections to increase to 170 by 2031/32.

Dr Julia Katherine, Director of Education and Lifelong Learning at Surrey County Council expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its importance in meeting the needs of children and young people with additional needs and disabilities in Surrey. She highlighted the significance of providing high-quality, specialist school provision within close proximity to families in Surrey Heath and the north of Surrey.

London South East Academies Trust, known for its commitment to driving improvements in schools, has been selected to establish Frimley Oak Academy. Dr Sam Parrett CBE, Chief Executive of LSEAT, expressed delight at the opportunity to work alongside Surrey County Council on this initiative. He emphasized the positive impact that Frimley Oak Academy will have on the lives of prospective pupils, their families, and the broader community.

Aligned with Surrey’s Inclusion and Additional Needs Partnership Strategy and Surrey Children and Young People’s Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Strategy, Frimley Oak Academy aims to provide a supportive educational environment where pupils can reach their full potential. The Trust’s education plan and specialist curriculum will focus on ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed academically and transition into employment.

Frimley Oak Academy represents a significant step forward in meeting the educational needs of children and young people with SEMH needs in Surrey. The collaboration between Surrey County Council and London South East Academies Trust underscores a shared commitment to providing inclusive and high-quality education for all students.