Posted on Tuesday 9th September 2025
A high school in Uttoxeter could be expanded by 120 extra places, if plans for funding are approved by Staffordshire County Council.
The county council’s cabinet will be discussing the use of £2.278 million to expand Thomas Alleyne’s High School in Uttoxeter.
If approved, the expansion will add an extra 90 places for Year 9 to 11 students, and 30 Sixth Form places, accommodating the growing number of children from new housing developments in the area.
The project, which will be fully funded by S106 contributions from residential developments in Uttoxeter, includes the construction of an innovation centre block and the expansion of an existing Science Laboratory.
The new facilities will provide students with an electronic and computing studio equipped with industry-standard software and a fully equipped science laboratory. This will boost STEM education and career readiness, fostering collaborative learning and innovation.
If approved, the academy school will need to apply to the Department for Education (DfE) for final approval.
Janet Higgins, Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Education said:
“We want every child to have the opportunity to learn in a local school, and we have a duty to ensure there are sufficient school places to cope with increasing demand. With new housing developments in the local area, we must plan for the future and ensure Thomas Alleyne’s High School can accommodate more young people.
“This extension will not only allow the school to expand by 120 pupils but also enhance the school’s STEM education facilities so more pupils will be able to learn in a modern, high-tech environment, that will help set them up for a bright future.”
Lou Heywood, Headteacher at Thomas Alleyne’s said:
“This proposed expansion is an exciting opportunity for our school and community. It will provide the young people of our local community with the modern, high-quality facilities and experiences they deserve. The investment in new learning spaces, particularly in science and technology, will ensure our students can thrive in a high-quality environment that prepares them for the future.
“We are proud of our tradition, but also ambitious for our students, and these plans will help us continue to provide the very best opportunities for every young person who joins Thomas Alleyne’s that inspires ambition and prepares them for future success."
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet will meet to discuss the proposals on 16 September.