Trees to mark opening of school
A PRIMARY school in Earl Shilton celebrated the opening of its new building with an official ceremony.
Newlands Primary School and contractors Willmott Dixon worked closely with Leicestershire County Council to complete the £5 million facility on Bell Vue Road, formerly home to Heathfield Academy.
The state-of-the-art centre was built to replace the old building on Moore Road in Barwell and can cater for up to 420 pupils, increasing the school’s capacity to meet with demand.
Council chairman Ozzy O’Shea donned his wellies for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and helped pupils and staff plant a new woodland, thanks to the donation of 420 trees from the Woodland Trust.
Councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for children and families, said: “We want to make sure that children and young people have the space and facilities they need to achieve their best.
“This new school is a fantastic space and has more than 140 additional places to help meet growing demand in the area.
“We are delighted that more children will be able to experience what the school has to offer, helping them to achieve their full potential.”
Simon Flint, head teacher at Newlands Community Primary School, said: “The council has created the school because pupil forecasts show that extra places are needed because of increased births, more families moving into the area and new housing developments.
“The new buildings will increase the places available from 280 to 420, extending the number of pupils who can benefit from the school.”
Newlands Community Primary School pupils also had their say on the new facilities.
Tilly, who is in Year 4, said that the school is “very modern and amazing”.
Year 3 pupil Holly said that she thinks “the school is spectacular”.
Vicki Baddeley, project leader for the Woodland Trust’s community tree packs scheme, said: “We are delighted to provide the school with new trees to replace those lost during construction.
“They will doubtless form a cherished part of the new school grounds, presenting opportunities for outdoor learning as well as a space to breathe.
“We hope they and the school will flourish for many years to come.”
Stuart Kerr, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “It’s great to see Newlands Community Primary School now open to teachers and children.
“We are looking forward to seeing the huge benefits that the new building and additional school spaces bring in terms of enhanced learning and opportunities.
“At Willmott Dixon, believe we have a purpose beyond profit and that includes being passionate about leaving a lasting positive legacy, something that Newlands will provide for many decades to come.”