The construction of a new state-of-the-art school building is underway at Kidbrooke Park Primary School, and will see the current 'degraded' facilities replaced in 2021.
Greenwich councillors were joined by teachers and pupils for the official launch on Wednesday, January 15, and plunged special spades into the ground to mark the start of construction.
Holly Broughton, the CEO of Kidbrooke Park Primary, said everyone at the school is "so pleased that our new school is underway" and added that they "can't wait to move in. What a fabulous start to 2020!"
The primary school submitted plans to move in the summer after it became clear the current school building was no longer fit for purpose after falling into "a considerable state of disrepair."
The plans said the current building at Hargood Road was becoming "increasingly difficult and cost-prohibitive" to maintain, and upgrading it was not a cost-effective option.
Opening in September next year, the new site is located a short walk away on Kellaway Road and will cater for 420 primary and 26 nursery pupils, plus a Behaviour Support Unit.
Marking the celebratory launch event, Greenwich Council leader Danny Thorpe was joined by other councillors and key figures, as well as head boy Mohamed, and head girl Bobbie, from Kidbrooke Park.
Cllr Thorpe commented: “Making sure children and young people in our borough have the best education and recreation facilities available to them is key and we’re all delighted to see this improved school building and grounds becoming a reality for residents in Kidbrooke.”
The two students put the councillors through their paces, asking them what will be different in the new school, how involved pupils will be, and what it's like to work at the top of the council.
The new site will also incorporate a multi-use games area and changing block, ensuring pupils are "provided with the tools and inspiration to reach their full potential."
Big thanks to Mohamed & Bobbie from @KidbrookeParkPS who joined us today at the ground breaking for the new school! Really pleased we’ve been able to work with the team get this done & support another fantastic @Royal_Greenwich school! @GriceChristine (selfie by Mohamed! 🤳) pic.twitter.com/QooMB7vtWc
— Dan Thorpe (@DanLThorpe) January 15, 2020
The move received strong public support when announced last year, with over 80 people writing to council in favour of a move to Kellaway Road.
Over the next 18 months, Greenwich Council’s approved contractor Galliford Try will be working closely with the consultant teams, the school and neighbouring residents to ensure that the new school is successfully delivered with minimal disruption.
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