We are proposing to update our official school capacity so that it matches the number of students we already serve and are expected to welcome in the future. This will make sure that our agreement with the Department for Education properly reflects the academy’s size and the needs of our growing local community

What is being proposed?

The proposal is to confirm a total capacity of 1,350 students aged 11 to 16 (years 7 to 11) and to retain existing post 16 provision for up to 287 students. This will give a total school capacity of 1,637 students.  

This is not a change to admissions or to the way the academy operates – it simply formalises the total number of places that we are able to offer. 

Why this change is needed?

The Hucknall area continues to grow, particularly due to new housing developments such as on the former Rolls-Royce site. Nottinghamshire County Council’s pupil forecasts show increasing local demand for secondary school places over the coming years. We already play a key role in meeting this need and, together with the council, have planned carefully for future population growth. 

The proposal ensures that more Hucknall families can access a local school close to home. Without this update, some children could face longer journeys to schools outside the area, resulting in higher travel costs, potential separation of siblings between different schools, and unnecessary disruption for families. 

How the change will be delivered?

A detailed review, undertaken with professional planners, confirmed that the existing buildings can fully accommodate this number of students within Department for Education design standards.  

We will undertake minor internal adjustments, such as creating a small number of new teaching spaces and repurposing underused areas. These works are modest, fully financed and designed to minimise any disruption to students and staff. 

The impact on students and the school community

This proposal will not change how the academy operates day-to-day. Teaching, learning and pastoral care will continue exactly as they do now. We will remain a welcoming, inclusive and high-quality learning environment, supporting the educational aspirations of the Hucknall community. 

All works are fully funded and included within the Trust’s approved capital programme. There will be no impact on core budgets, class sizes or curriculum breadth. The Trust and the local authority will continue to work in partnership to ensure the best outcomes for children and families across Hucknall. 

How to have your say

We welcome feedback from parents and carers, the local community, and neighbouring schools and local authorities. You can participate in the consultation through either: 

  • in writing to ‘Capacity consultation, The Holgate Academy, Nabbs Lane, Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, NG15 6HB’; or 
  • by requesting a meeting to discuss your views in person – please contact us at info@holgate-ac.org.uk or call 0115 9632104 to arrange this. 

Responses must be received by 28 December 2025. 

What happens after the consultation closes?

All responses received will be considered. Will make a decision taking into account a range of information, including the consultation responses.