Updated June 2008

In June 2006, the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) offered funding to deliver a new pathfinder school, the help deliver educational change, in line with DCSF criteria, by providing a 'new' school to meet the needs of the school and local community.

Successful delivery of the project may mean earlier access to further DCSF Building Schools for the Future funding for B&NES’s other secondary schools.

Following evaluation of a number of potential schools, Writhlington School was identified as the most suitable site for the Authority’s One School Pathfinder. 

The project will involve constructing a new 1300 place secondary school for 11 – 18 year olds on the grounds of the existing school playing fields. This will address substantial condition and suitability issues by replacing approximately 85% of the present school buildings. The remaining newer accommodation will be refurbished directly by the school as required.

The project will aim to achieve a 'very good' rating using the BREEAM Schools Methodology and will include natural ventilation and a Bio Mass Boiler to provide heating and hot water, which will substantially reduce the school’s carbon emissions.

Kier Western have been appointed as the main contractor for the project and are currently undertaking the construction design.  Construction of the new school is due to commence in August 2008. Construction will complete in January 2010 allowing the school to be fitted out with new furniture, fixtures & equipment  and ICT equipment. The school plan to move into their new accommodation in April 2010, following which the old school will be demolished to provide a new car park and sports pitch.