Expansion proposal for academy to meet demand

AN ACADEMY in Hinckley has submitted plans to build a new eight-classroom block.

Redmoor Academy proposes to build a two-storey building to the south-east of the school, providing eight classrooms, a meeting space, toilets, offices and a study area.

The new site, located near the games court, will be attached to the main building by a canopy.

It will house the maths department, business studies and Careers, Education, Advice, Information and Guidance (CEAIG) and enterprise initiatives.

The academy said the new building is needed to cope with the “continuing expansion” as it transforms from a key stage three school to an 11 to 16 centre.

In a statement the school said: “Within two years the school will have increased in numbers from approximately 500 to over 900 students.

“In addition to catering for two extra year groups, the intake in Year 7 has been steadily rising at this over-subscribed and ever-popular school.

“With increased numbers, comes the obvious demand for increased space and the governing body and senior leadership team have strived to ensure that the opportunities for students remain consistently high.”

Proposals for the new building include a “ultra-modern, energy-efficient” design with a solar panel roof, providing a negative carbon emission rating.

It will be made from timber clad in cedar wood to give a “natural look” and allow the site to “grow in character” over time with weathering.

A report supporting the application said the extension would “bring high quality teaching and ancillary facilities” to the school.

It added: “The project provides both additional classrooms and addresses problems with the existing building.

“The project will significantly improve the teaching environment children to receive high quality education in an outstanding school.”

If approved, the school hopes work will begin over the summer break and be completed by the end of October.

The school added: “In the interim, the academy will be ensuring that the quality of education is not compromised by hiring high quality temporary buildings and involving their students in every step of this exciting journey.”