Work is underway on a new £1.5 million refurbishment at a Coventry school which will see the creation of specialist new classrooms and vital new places for prospective students.
Midlands-based Deeley Construction, which is headquartered in Coventry, has started work on the refurbishment project at secondary school Finham Park 2.
Three areas of the school site will be completely renovated, including the creation of a new multi-use game area pitch for students to use.
Work taking place in the existing Edwards Keep block will see the space transformed with the creation of two new design and technology classrooms, a new STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) classroom and a room created for teachers to prepare learning materials.
The classrooms will feature the latest technology and professional standard equipment, including laser cutters, 3D printers and offer industry standard kit.
The food technology classroom will also be kitted out with modern appliances used in professional kitchens.
The project will enable Finham Park 2 to accommodate an additional 60 school pupils, responding to increased demand for school places across Coventry while delivering education to prepare students for the modern-day world of work.
Will Keddie, Headteacher at Finham Park 2, said: “Design and technology is a strength we already have at the school, and we offer alternative courses such as engineering that you won’t find at many other schools.
“This new space will allow us to build on that strength of what we can offer students. It will also enhance how we can deliver STEM skills.
“STEM subjects can lead to important career paths where there is a demand for skilled individuals, so having a high-quality STEM facility will make a massive difference for young people in this community.
“We’re committed to giving students the time of their lives. It’s not just about courses and exams, it’s about offering experiences that give them memories for life and prepare them for their future career too.
“By having cutting-edge technologies in areas like design and technology, STEM and food technology, we are perfectly positioned to deliver on that commitment.”
The project, which has been supported by Glancy Nicholls Architects, is expected to be completed in September 2023, in time for the next academic year.
Deeley Construction is completing the project on behalf of Coventry City Council.
Steve Turner, Construction Director at Deeley Construction, said: “This is a development that will bring fantastic benefits to students and staff at the school, and we are proud to be delivering it on behalf of Coventry City Council.
“We have a long standing history of delivering projects which help to enhance the education of young people across Coventry and Warwickshire – including our recently completed development at Ernesford Grange Community Academy.
“Our on-site team will be ensuring there is minimal disruption for students and staff as work begins, with work progressing over the summer ahead of school starting back in September.”
Cllr Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Finham Park 2 is already such a wonderful learning environment for pupils and it is brilliant to see it flourishing and improving even more.
“This refurbishment will give the students the very latest and best surroundings and facilities, and, coupled with the skills and dedication of the teachers and staff there, it will create something very special.
“Coventry is a city that believes so strongly in giving all its children and young people the best start in life, and that means they need the best schools, so we are very grateful to be working with Deeley to provide these extra facilities that I know will be loved by students and staff alike.”
PICTURE CAPTION: Mark Bailie (Finham Park MAT), Richard Pepper (Deeley Construction), Richard Bamford (Deeley Construction), Cllr Dr Kindy Sandhu, Will Keddie (Finham Park 2).