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THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR EDUCATION – www.educationbusinessuk.net
NEW BUILDINGS
BREATHING LIFE INTO OLD SCHOOL BUILDINGS
Design & Build
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Education Business looks at schools that have had their dilapidated school buildings rebuilt as part of the government’s Priority School Building Programme, as well as some projects in the pipeline Dilapidated school buildings across England are undergoing major renovations and repairs as part of the government’s £2.4 billion programme to rebuild 261 of the schools in England in the worst condition – known as the Priority School Building Programme (PSBP). One of the latest schools to be completed under the programme is Garston Manor School, a special educational needs school in Watford catering for up to 124 secondary aged boys and girls (11 to 16 year olds). The school handles all special educational needs including learning difficulties, autism or speech, and language related needs.
The renovated £5 million, single story, fit‑for‑purpose rebuild comprises new classrooms and a dining area and hall, as well as new internal and external spaces to aid learning and support the students’ individual needs. The rebuild was completed in just 11 months, which was made possible by a successful partnership between the school, Hertfordshire County Council, the Education Funding Agency (EFA) and the contractor, Wates Construction. INSPIRATIONAL FACILITIES Schools Minister David Laws said: “The official opening of Garston Manor
School is a fantastic achievement. Delivering great new schools will help to build a stronger economy and a fairer society, so that every young person in Watford can get on in life. Vital building work is taking place at schools in the worst state across the country. “I hope the new school facilities will provide an inspirational learning environment that will encourage every student to reach their full potential.” John Singh, the Chair of Governors at Garston Manor, said: “The community that Garston Manor serves have every reason to be delighted with their new school. The staff
“Delivering great new schools will help to build a stronger economy and a fairer society, so that every young person in Watford can get on in life.” David Laws, Schools Minister
Whitmore Park School
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