Speller Metcalfe to deliver new facilities for ‘Outstanding’ school
The Cotswold School, an ‘Outstanding’ comprehensive academy set in beautiful rural surroundings between Cheltenham and Oxford, has been given the green light by Gloucestershire County Council to increase capacity for students.
Construction firm Speller Metcalfe has been contracted to deliver a range of building works to support an increase in pupil numbers from 220 to 250 per year at the school from September 2021 entry onwards.
Designed by Robothams, the biggest element of the £5.8m scheme is the development of a new two-storey, standalone English teaching block which will provide 10 new classrooms. The build follows a highly sustainable, low carbon design, and will provide a 100% improvement in sustainable performance under building control standards.
“This project will enable the Academy to not only increase provision, but provide modern facilities for students and improve opportunities for learning,” said Andy Metcalfe, joint managing director at Speller Metcalfe.
He continued: “As well as benefits to the school, the construction phase will create employment opportunities for businesses from the surrounding area, which as a local contractor ourselves, is particularly important to Speller Metcalfe.”
The Cotswold School has continued on its path of excellence in teaching and learning by continuously developing facilities since opening its doors over 30 years ago. Will Morgan, Principal, said:
“We are delighted that, due to our track record in providing outstanding education for children who join us from across a wide area, we have the scope to enhance and extend that quality of education for even more pupils.”
Alongside the 10 new classrooms, the existing sports hall is being extended to create additional gym and changing facilities, improve circulation and provide a dedicated office for sports staff.
Two classrooms are also being converted, alongside a small extension, to add to the school’s suite of modern science laboratories.
Cllr Patrick Molyneux, cabinet member for education, economy and skills at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “We’re thrilled that work is beginning on expanding The Cotswold School, which will provide much needed places in the area in a low carbon, high quality setting. This is a significant part of our £100m investment into our county’s schools to make sure all children get the education they deserve.”
Speller Metcalfe was selected for the project through their place on the Gloucestershire County Council Major Construction Works framework, with the scheme due to complete at the end of 2021.