Why was The Heights Primary School's expansion initially rejected?

Reading councillors rejected the expansion due to concerns about its impact on the sustainability of other local schools.

What was the outcome of The Heights Primary School's appeal?

The Planning Inspectorate granted the appeal, allowing the school to admit more pupils.

What did Ofsted say about The Heights Primary School?

Ofsted previously rated the school as outstanding and noted its high aspirations for all pupils.

Home / Education / Primary School Wins Appeal to Admit More Students

Primary School Wins Appeal to Admit More Students

20 Nov, 2025

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Summary

The Heights Primary School can now admit more pupils.
Council rejected the expansion plan over sustainability fears.
Planning Inspectorate overturned the council's decision.

Primary School Wins Appeal to Admit More Students

The Heights Primary School in Caversham, Reading, has secured permission to expand its pupil capacity following a successful appeal. The school, which was graded outstanding by Ofsted in 2017, had applied to increase its student roll from 350 to 420.

Reading councillors previously denied the application in December 2024, expressing worries that admitting more students could jeopardize the viability of other local schools. However, the Planning Inspectorate has now ruled in favor of the school's appeal, determining that the expansion does not contravene any official planning policies.

Headteacher Hayley Harrison celebrated the decision, emphasizing that the increased provision would greatly benefit local families by offering more educational choices. The school's latest Ofsted report from October 2024 highlighted its "high aspirations for all pupils" and a strong focus on student learning.