Background
Our client, a private property investment group, acquired a former school site in Tamworth as part of their portfolio expansion strategy. The building was ideally suited for reuse within the education sector, and the client initially intended to lease it to a suitable operator. Recognising the strong local demand for Special Educational Needs (SEN) facilities, Bernard Gordon & Co were appointed to identify and secure a tenant that could bring the property back into community-focused use. With our extensive network of education providers and investors, we were confident in achieving a successful outcome that balanced the client’s investment goals with the area’s educational needs.
Challenges
Before the formal marketing campaign began, the property had already attracted interest from several prospective occupiers. However, while demand was strong, the majority of enquiries came from SEN operators seeking to purchase rather than lease the property. This presented a key challenge: our client’s original strategy was to retain the site as an investment and secure a long-term lease. We needed to navigate this gap in expectations while maintaining momentum in negotiations. In addition, ensuring the property met DfE and Ofsted compliance standards for SEN use was crucial. The buyer would need to undertake significant refurbishment to adapt the building for specialist educational provision, so clear communication on planning, fire safety, and safeguarding considerations was essential to keep both parties aligned throughout discussions.
Solution
Bernard Gordon & Co managed the process from marketing through to completion, leveraging our relationships within the SEN sector to identify credible, motivated purchasers. One operator, in particular, expressed strong interest but made it clear they would only proceed with a freehold acquisition rather than a leasehold arrangement. Recognising that this approach could deliver an excellent result for all parties, we advised our client to explore a sale instead. The prospective buyer submitted an attractive offer that exceeded expectations and aligned with the property’s valuation. We guided both parties through the due diligence process, addressing planning use under Class F1 (Education), reviewing title and access considerations, and coordinating with solicitors to ensure a smooth transaction. By remaining adaptable and focused on outcomes, we successfully negotiated a sale that maximised value and ensured the site’s continued educational use.
Result
The property was sold on favourable terms to a specialist SEN school operator, who has since commenced extensive refurbishment works to modernise the building. Scheduled to open in 2026, the new facility will provide much-needed capacity for SEN education in the Staffordshire area.
“Bernard Gordon were a pleasure to work with and went above and beyond to ensure the deal completed successfully. It was a complicated transaction, managed with professionalism and calm throughout.”
Dan Goodman – Harkalm
The project achieved an excellent financial outcome for the vendor and a strategic acquisition for the purchaser, ensuring that the property continues to serve the community. The result highlights our team’s flexibility in adapting marketing strategies to meet the evolving needs of both investors and occupiers.
Lessons Learned
This transaction demonstrated that flexibility is key in the education property market. By remaining open to both leasehold and freehold structures, investors can capitalise on market opportunities and achieve optimal outcomes, particularly where demand from high-quality education operators is strong.
Outcome
The Tamworth case illustrates how an investment-led property sale can still deliver meaningful community benefit when guided by sector expertise. Our team’s ability to match investor objectives with operational demand ensured a successful and socially impactful result.
Contact our experienced agents to discuss how we can help you realise value from your educational or institutional property while ensuring continued community use.