PRIMARY school pupils have expressed their delight at a new building which will enable them to learn in different year groups.
Plans for the new building – and outdoor facilities – have been in place at West Witney Primary School for the last five years.
Increasing the number of pupils the school could take from 45 to 60 was agreed five years ago, but due to issues beyond the school’s control, work on the building has hit several crossroads.
Now though, the school has officially unveiled the new building, which includes classrooms for Year 5 and 6 pupils, a Year 6 library, intervention space and kitchen - with a 'nurture' room also underway.
Headteacher Nancy Darby said: “We were well supported by Kier [the construction company], they had to stop in March with the first lockdown, but they were then able to get some services going under strict Covid restrictions.
“The biggest thing for us now is we can offer single year groups rather than mixed ones, which means teaching and learning is more effective.
“The curriculum is very specific to year groups, and we can cater to that better now.
“The intervention space can be used to support children who aren’t working at their age level.
“The next part is to get the nurture room open, we’ll be able to do our ELSA [emotional literacy support assistant] programme in there to improve children’s wellbeing.
“We haven’t had the space to use the ELSAs in a productive environment, it’s been in a temporary classroom or a corner of a corridor.”
Work has also taken place outside, with a pond area renovated and a new playground, which pupils are already enjoying.
Year 6 pupil Sienna Betteridge said: “It’s a good opportunity for us to expand with our learning – we’ve got this massive new playground and we get to do more physical activities.”
Fellow Year 6 student, Thomas Whiteman, added: “It’s a really cool change, we’ve got lots more space to play football and netball, and for PE on the field.”
The school’s PTA has also funded a new climbing frame for pupils.
On hand to officially open the new building was Witney town councillor Thomas Ashby, a former pupil at the school.
He said: “When I left, it was getting to the point where it felt a little dated, but now it feels fresh and new.
“The new playground is amazing, with a running track and climbing frame still to come.
“There used to be mixed classes so you might not have been ready for the next step up, but now it enables the children to be thoroughly prepared for the transition.”
Kevin Stenson, chair of governors, added: “We’re creating children who are lifelong learners, and this is about preparing for a lifelong commitment to learning.
“All the governors are incredibly proud of the school and leadership team, and Nancy has ensured this project has finally happened.”
Pupils are currently collectively running 10 marathons in five days to raise money for a running track.
To donate, please visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/pta-wwps1
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