09/05/11 - A flying start for Stoke BSF

The build programme consists of significant remodeling to some existing areas of the schools and areas of new build. Construction is undertaken in a number of phases.

The first phase began on April 11th and consists of works to the Science and Technology areas. These will be completed for the beginning of the next academic year. The Technology block will be extended to incorporate a hi-tech design studio, refurbished food technology rooms, a textiles studio and a community Engineering suite, enabling Haywood to further enhance their Engineering Specialism. A 21st century Science area will be created, based on the innovative principles of “Project Faraday” and feature state-of-the -art specialist laboratories and open spaces that will support creative and interactive learning.

From May half-term, further works will begin in the Music area to enhance the school’s flourishing Performing Arts provision. This will result in improved rehearsal and practice spaces and a new performance studio. These works will also be completed for the beginning of the new academic year.

Elements of the programme that follow during the 2011-12 academic year include creating open plan, flexible learning areas, fully equipped with the latest ICT, that will offer students new, exciting ways to learn. A brand new four court sports hall will be built that will host a full range of indoor sports and feature a fitness and dance studio and changing facilities will be completed by the Summer Term of 2012 – this will also be available for community use out of school hours. Finally, a Science and Technology courtyard with landscaped outdoor learning areas and an iconic, inspirational ‘learning tower’ will also be created during the Autumn and Spring Term of 2011.

The facilities that will be opened in September 2012 will be first to be completed under the Stoke-on-Trent BSF programme. Staff and students at Haywood Engineering College are enthused and excited by the development of their site. As a successful and continually oversubscribed school, the new facilities that Building Schools for the Future provides will help to propel the whole school community to new heights in their mission to be “Aiming Higher”.

Alan Sims, Construction Manager, Thomas Vale Construction commented:“This is the first school we are building under the ‘Building Schools for the future’ scheme for Stoke on Trent and I am delighted that strong working relationships are being forged already between Thomas Vale and Haywood Engineering College. We are extremely pleased to be working with our partners to create state of the art facilities that the school and local community can be proud of.”