Local community decides on the name ‘Newlands’ for new school in Waterlooville

Local residents have voted for the name Newlands Primary Academy for an exciting new primary school on the Berewood development to the west of Waterlooville, near Portsmouth.

The new-build primary academy, which will be part of the University of Chichester Academy Trust’s family of schools, is scheduled to open in September 2025.

A few weeks ago, the University of Chichester Academy Trust asked the local community - particularly prospective parents, carers and young people in and around the Berewood development - what they would like the new academy to be called.

Four names, Forest, Newlands, River and Woodland, were on the ballot paper, chosen on the basis of historical documents, maps of the area, previous consultations and initial discussions with the community.

Newlands Primary Academy was the winning name.

This name was put forward initially in view of Newlands Parish being the parish where the new academy is located and because Newlands Farm and Newlands Lane run adjacent to the academy site; it aptly reflects the history of the area and places the school firmly at the heart of the community.

When full, the two-storey academy will provide primary education for up to 315 children aged four to 11 and will have specialist resource provision for eight pupils with special education needs.

Jennese Alozie, CEO of the University of Chichester Academy Trust, said: “We would like to thank everyone who took the time and trouble to vote and for taking an interest in our new-build primary academy.

“This school will be a vibrant, inclusive community that will transform life chances and ensure every pupil thrives and we are delighted that it will be a part of our family of schools.

“We look forward to work beginning on the site and will keep the local community updated on its progress.”