In a significant development, Grove Church of England Primary School is set to benefit from a £9.4 million investment in new buildings and improvements. The multimillion-pound deal, funded by Oxfordshire County Council, was approved by its cabinet on Tuesday, June 18. This major building project aims to expand the school’s capacity, accommodating 315 primary pupil places, along with 39 new nursery places. The project will replace temporary classrooms with permanent structures, enhancing the learning environment for students.
Enhancing Educational Facilities
Headteacher Donna Blake expressed excitement about the project, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the school community. “This is an exciting new chapter for our school,” said Blake. “We are delighted to offer nursery provision for young families and enhance the excellent education we already provide for children from Reception to Year Six. The additional facilities will complement our wonderful outdoor spaces.”
Partnership and Management
The Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust (ODST) will manage this ambitious project. As part of the 43-school multi-academy trust, Grove CE Primary School will benefit from the expertise and resources provided by ODST. The trust’s consolidated headteacher, Donna Blake, highlighted how the funding will support local families’ needs.
Building Details
The new school building will feature seven classrooms, a hall, a kitchen, a main entrance reception area, and administrative and staff accommodation. Additionally, David Wilson Homes, in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council, will deliver a new housing development to the north of the school. As part of this collaboration, the school will receive a full-sized all-weather sports pitch and a new entrance with parking facilities.
Lisa Lyons, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Children Services, emphasized the commitment to providing high-quality teaching and learning environments. “This is a significant investment, adding nearly 150 places for primary and nursery pupils to meet future needs,” said Lyons. Details regarding the project’s timeline will be confirmed in the coming months as work begins.
