Work begins on new primary school for Blofield

Work has just got underway to build a new primary school in Blofield. 
 
A ground-breaking ceremony, which traditionally marks the beginning of construction for new building projects, was attended by Norfolk County Council, which is funding and has commissioned the new school, senior school leaders, the two youngest and two oldest pupils at the school and governing body representatives along with the main contractor, Pentaco Construction LTD.  
 
The new school will ensure the school serves its current catchment area and supports the growth the local area. The new primary school will provide an overall capacity of 420 places on a single site. 
 
The Blofield Primary School expansion project includes a new two-storey building, with 14 classrooms, a kitchen, library, administration offices and a main hall with adjoining studio space. 
 
Reception and Key Stage one classrooms will be based on the ground floor, with direct outside access and Key Stage two classrooms will be on the first floor. A large practical group room will also be situated on the first floor and fitted out to meet the school's curriculum need.  
 
Cllr Penny Carpenter, cabinet member for children's services said: "As a council, we take great pride in our commitment to education, and the groundbreaking ceremony at Blofield Primary School is a testament to that dedication. 
 
"We are excited about the positive changes this expansion will bring and the lasting benefits it will have on the education of our children. The expansion aligns with our commitment to investing in education and ensuring a bright future for the next generation." 
 
Cllr Andrew Proctor, local member for Blofield and Brundall, said: "The population of Blofield has grown considerably in recent years which brings added pressure on local infrastructure. Having this new school doubling the pupil capacity is in response to that growth and that's exactly the approach people in Blofield expect to see. I look forward to its opening." 
 
Teresa Doggett, Headteacher at Blofield Primary School, said "Our aim is to ensure that every child who attends Blofield Primary School has a happy and supportive education experience, while having fun learning. 
 
The new Blofield Primary School will ensure we can support the growth of required primary school spaces needed across the local area whilst helping the children to achieve the very high standards they are capable of." 
 
Andrew Grady, Managing Director Pentaco Construction Ltd, said: "We are delighted to be working together with Norfolk County Council Childrens Services, NPS and Blofield Primary School on this project and to be celebrating this key milestone in the build programme." 
 
The school administration looks forward to unveiling the upgraded facilities to pupils, parents and the broader community upon project completion.