Work begins on new primary school for Sutton

The existing building is the original Victorian school house constructed in 1874. This has been extended over the years to accommodate the increase in pupil numbers.  There is very little space for children to play in, both inside and outside, and with new family housing planned for the area the temporary buildings desperately need to be replaced.

The cost of the new school is being met from a government grant, Herefordshire Council capital funds and a £200,000 contribution from the community towards the new hall.  Able to accommodate 84 children, a pre-school and after school club, the new building will consist of three classrooms and a community hall for shared use.

The school will be built with the environment in mind - natural lighting and ventilation will minimise the need to consume energy.  A special feature will include a rainwater harvesting system so that rainwater can be conserved and recycled. 

The school is contributing to the project by kitting out the new building with contemporary furniture and state of the art ICT equipment.

Peter Box, acting head teacher, said: “We have just received this year’s results which indicate that Sutton St Nicholas Primary School is one of the most improving primary schools in the country.  100% of our key stage two children achieved level 4 in English, reading and writing with 91% in maths and 91% in science.  100% of these children also managed to get a level 5 in reading which is unprecedented. 

“This goes to show what a strong, successful school Sutton St Nicholas is, despite the poor existing accommodation.

“We’re delighted that the children are going to get the new, modern school they deserve.” 

Over the last few weeks, preparatory work has been undertaken by C J Bayliss who have been contracted to build the school.  The first brick will be laid on Friday 27th July by Councillor Jenny Hyde, cabinet member for children and young people at 2.30pm.

Councillor Jenny Hyde, cabinet member for children and young people, said:  “Herefordshire Council is committed to providing the very best education we can for our children, and we are keen to make sure the buildings children learn in are good quality. 

“The school’s performance has improved dramatically recently.  The children, staff and parents are celebrating some incredible key stage one and two results at the moment in spite of the poor surroundings – soon the children will be able to enjoy learning in new, modern buildings which is what they deserve.”

The new school will be completed by Easter next year.