Three Croydon schools marked the first day of the new term with the opening of new classrooms as part of the council’s programme of building and expanding schools across the borough.
The local authority has invested almost £17 million into the three projects.
Chipstead Valley, Heavers Farm and St John’s Primary Schools have all now grown by a form of entry each, meaning that between them they can admit an extra 90 pupils every year.
“Ensuring that Croydon has sufficient primary and secondary school places is one of many key priorities for the council, and I’m delighted these three schemes have all been completed in time for the new school year and are all being so well-received.”
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning
The new building at Chipstead Valley links the former Infant and Junior buildings and forms a new entrance as a focal-point for the school.
At Heavers Farm a new two-storey building has been erected which includes eight classrooms and a studio link to the main school. A new all-weather pitch replaces the previous playground area.
The expansion at St John’s is another two-storey construction, also linked to the original school. This project has doubled the school’s previous intake of pupils, bringing many benefits in terms of staff training opportunities, funding, and the ability to teach additional specialist subjects
Martina Martin, head teacher at St John’s in Shirley, said: “The new building – our ‘Ark’ – is a fantastic addition to the school. It’s a brilliant space that’s full of light and has a great outdoor area that can be used all year round. We’re delighted to have been able to expand thanks to help and investment from the council and we look forward to welcoming many more pupils over future years.”
