New SEND Classroom in Reigate

Published on: 5 Jun, 2026
Updated on: 5 Jun, 2026

Reigate College (image Google)

By Chris Caulfield

local democracy reporter

“Admirable” new special education facilities will soon be provided at Reigate College after planning permission for a new classroom was secured.

The college has said it will help provide tailored education for students with disabilities and complex learning needs – although it will come at the cost of the school’s existing tennis courts.

Reigate College chiefs have said they hope to be able to replace these within its existing grounds, although this is still at an early stage.

The number of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), at the school has increased significantly in recent years, rising from 43 in 2022-23 to a 70 in 2025-26.

Projections for 2026-27 indicate this will continue to increase and prior to the planning application, the existing provision was considered inadequate to cope.

The proposal will not result in an increase in overall pupil numbers.

Cllr Michael Blacker (Con, Reigate) told Reigate and Banstead Council’s June 3 Planning Committee meeting: “I think the school has done a good job with the planning.

“They seem to have made a big effort to get it right and there is no way I can object to it.

Cllr Sam Walsh (Con, Banstead Village) said: “I am really pleased that the college is actually recognising the need for SEND.

“It is an important part of an educational facility.

“Its very important that a college provides that.

“I think the benefit of what is being proposed here certainly outweighs any harm in the loss of facilities on the site.”

Cllr Rich Michalowski (Con, Redhill West and Wray Common) added: “ I don’t think members would find this proposal anything but admirable in terms of SEND provision, that goes without saying.

“It’s creating a facility for SEND provision that is only to be championed.”