Activate Learning is set to deliver one of the UK’s most forward-thinking Post-16 SEND and Alternative Provision hubs, after Wokingham Borough Council confirmed its intention to progress with a groundbreaking new partnership.
The new £1.5 million project will see the upper floor of the former Wokingham Library, on Denmark Street, transformed into a state-of-the-art learning environment, redefining how young people with barriers to learning are supported in their transition into adulthood, employment and independent life.
The announcement follows more than ten months of collaboration with stakeholders culminating in Wokingham Borough Council choosing Activate Learning as a lead partner in this exciting project.
The redevelopment of the former Wokingham Library will create a secure, modern and aspirational learning environment, supporting learners aged 16–25 with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) who need specialist, therapeutic and a more personalised approach to their education.
The new centre is yet to be named, with a plan for Activate Learning and Wokingham Borough Council to engage with learners and service users to agree on a new name for it prior to it being launched.
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.
Outstanding SEND provision at Activate Learning
Activate Learning already delivers the UK’s largest SEND provision, with award-winning outcomes including 98% retention of high needs learners and up to 80% progression into paid employment through Supported Internships.
Michelle Parks, Group Director of Lifeskills at Activate Learning, said: “We are incredibly proud to be selected as a lead partner in developing this new Post-16 Hub.
“At Activate Learning, we know that many young people thrive when education is shaped around their individual strengths, needs and ambitions.
“This innovative model, bringing together academic pathways, vocational learning and personalised pastoral and therapeutic support, will transform opportunities for learners who have previously struggled to access traditional routes.
“By creating a truly bespoke curriculum offer, we can better equip our young people with the confidence, skills, and experiences they need to move more quickly and successfully into meaningful employment.”
A commitment to our local communities
Gary Headland DL, Chief Executive of Activate Learning, said: “Activate Learning is deeply committed to supporting our local communities and – subject to formal approval of the final business case – we are proud to be progressing this exciting partnership.
“The Wokingham Post-16 SEND Hub is a highly innovative partnership and reflects what can be achieved through strong collaboration between education and local authorities. Together, we are creating a connected, supportive environment around each young person.
“Underpinned by our Learning Philosophy – focusing on the brain, motivation, and emotions – this hub will deliver personalised, human-centred learning that builds confidence, independence and real-world readiness.
“This is more than a new provision; it is a shared commitment to unlocking potential and enabling every learner to thrive within their community.”
First cohort to be welcomed in September 2026
The new hub will open to its first cohort of learners in September 2026, with a plan to grow the number of learners from 12 to more than 40 by 2028. This is a significant project that will allow Activate Learning’s Outstanding rated high-needs provision to support the growing local demand.
Executive Member for Children’s Services and Deputy Leader of Wokingham Borough Council Cllr Prue Bray said: “The new Post-16 SEND Hub is fantastic news for young people who have autism, learning difficulties and mental health needs. It will support and enrich their lives through education, vocational training and essential, independent living skills.
“Partnership is important to the council and we are looking forward to working with Activate Learning to deliver this much-needed hub in the heart of Wokingham. By having the hub local, it ensures young people can access specialist provision closer to home, while also reducing out of borough placements which will save the council money.”
A transformative offer for learners and families
The hub will provide:
- Three bespoke curriculum pathways – engagement, employment (including Supported Internships), and academic progression.
- Integrated therapeutic and pastoral support, including counselling, outreach and family engagement.
- A learner-led commercial café, offering real-world work experience and industry-recognised qualifications.
- Personalised transition plans and multidisciplinary support, beginning six months before learners start.
- Strong employer collaboration, building on partnerships with Amazon, National Grid, Royal Berkshire Hospital and others via our partners and Supported Internship opportunities.
The provision is designed to directly address the 22.4% projected increase in local EHCP demand, reduce reliance on out-of-county placements, and ensure young people can access specialist education closer to home and their community networks.
To learn more about the hub, please visit the hub webpage on the Bracknell and Wokingham College website.