The £2.15 million project will replace two temporary buildings and is to provide a new assembly hall and two classrooms. The walls are formed and roof is starting to go on and is moving from an open site to an enclosed building. The school intends to use the adjoining field as an outdoor learning environment (an 'outdoor classroom') and specialised works include extensive tree and shrub planting, the installation of an artificial badger sett, amphibian homes and dormouse nests. Plans for the development of 'Mike's Meadow' include building a straw bale shelter, story telling circle and firepit with the intention that many local groups will be able to enjoy the space. The eye catching feature of a giant landscape sculpture in the form of a newt has already been landscaped and will be planted by volunteers during the school's community Planting Day on 5th March 2011. The pupils have all been involved in the planning and consultations and the Year 6 children are currently creating the newt's eyes mosaics. Completion estimate: anticipated to be September 2011.
The school has launched a 'Sponsor a Tree Campaign' to fund the planting of up to 500 trees. If you are interested in sponsoring a tree or helping to plant on Saturday 5 March, please contact eh school on 01225 858555. All planting volunteers are very welcome from 9.30 am but please let the school know you are coming.
Head Teacher Sarah Weber said, “Our vision was to create a teaching and learning environment which provides light, space and flexibility and is sympathetic to our beautiful village setting. The children are enjoying watching as the steel frame of our new building is bolted together to create the structure for our new hall, classrooms, kitchen and group rooms.”