Pupils of Colmore Junior & Infants view the building work.
Construction work has started at Colmore Junior and Infant School, marking the expansion and improvement of the schools’ facilities.
The project will see Wates Construction extend both the junior and infant school at Kings Heath. The growth plans will involve the conversion of some of the existing classroom blocks and the construction of new additional buildings with new facilities including teaching spaces, a dining room, library, a brand new school hall and a fenced all-weather sports pitch. A special viewing window has also been installed, enabling pupils to safely observe the construction now it is under way.
In response to a projected increase in pupil intake, the development scheme forms part of Birmingham City Council’s Primary Places Programme to ensure sufficient primary school places are available to children in the residential area, and will see Colmore Junior and Infant Schools grow from a combined intake of 630 to 840 pupils.
Wates Construction is working with Birmingham City Council’s Urban Design department and each individual school to develop the classroom layout and design. An emphasis has also been put on securing the input of educationalists, school staff, governors and parents to ensure the plans compliment the existing school design and location, whilst also providing functional and flexible teaching spaces to accommodate the schools’ curriculum.
Phil Harrison, managing director of Wates Construction in the North and Midlands, commented: “This project is not merely about increasing the capacity of the schools but is also about enhancing the learning environment for both teachers and pupils. It is a key project for Birmingham City Council and it has been critical that we work in close partnership with both the Council and the schools when drawing up the plans for the layout and design. It will be a challenging project but we have an experienced and skilful team on the job.”
Viv Randall (Infants & Nursery), Janine Glazzard (Wates), Cheryl Millard
Speaking on behalf of herself and Viv Randall, head teacher of Colmore Infants School, Cheryl Millard, head teacher of Colmore Junior School commented: “We are delighted about the prospect of the extension of our schools. Seeing the work begin and watching the plans come to life is very exciting. It’ll be wonderful for our facilities to grow to accommodate for new pupils.”
Wates Construction will be working alongside the Council’s Urban Design and Education Departments on the school’s expansion, with a view to completing the project in time for the 2011/2012 academic year.
