TEACHERS, pupils, and representatives from Gloucestershire County Council, Crest Nicholson and Willmott Dixon, held a ground breaking ceremony, at the new Hunts Grove Academy in Quedgeley East.

The ceremony marked the start of the construction of the new two form entry school, plus nursery located at the centre of the new Hunts Grove Community.

When complete, the new community will comprise 2,450 homes together with the necessary supporting infrastructure.

Glenn Philcox, Headteacher of the school said: “We are thrilled that the build is progressing on our school. The staff, pupils and parents are very excited to have our own space where we can continue to develop Hunts Grove Primary Academy and give the pupils the opportunity to be the best they can be.”

Cllr Lynden Stowe, cabinet member for economy, skills and growth said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Hunts Grove. It is important that we have enough good and outstanding school places available for children in the local area. I feel the new build will be welcomed by the local community and I look forward to seeing how the improvements help develop what is already a wonderful school.”

A Sunesis Keynes design, the school will deliver all the key requirements suited to 21st century learning, in a safe, versatile and efficient building.

John Boughton, Deputy Managing Director Willmott Dixon said: "We are delighted to be working with Crest Nicholson to create this important part of the Hunts Grove community. Sunesis schools have been designed based on practical advice from experienced teachers and educationalists to provide high quality learning environments that fulfil all needs. I am confident that once complete, the school will become a vibrant learning hub for the new Hunts Grove community."

Andrew Dobson, Managing Director of Crest Nicholson’s Strategic Projects division commented: “This marks an important milestone for the new Hunts Grove Academy. On completion, the new nursery and primary school will form a pivotal part of the growing community at Hunts Grove and will provide children from the local community with excellent educational opportunities. We recognise the importance of a good education and how beneficial a school is to a community, which is why we’re very pleased to be working with Willmott Dixon as construction gets started on this project.”