All change at Pennycross school

Plans for major improvement works worth over two and a half million pounds have been drawn up for Pennycross Primary School to create much-needed space for growing pupil numbers.

Architects Stride Treglown have now been appointed to work with the school and the Council to put together the designs. The improvements are needed to cope with an increase in birth rates and the new housing developments in the area.

The City Council is investing £2.786m from the capital investment programme which includes £646,601from section 106 funding which has been generated by housing developments in the area.

The work will provide a new two-storey extension with eight new classrooms (four to each floor), stores, toilets, group rooms and a new hard play area. The newly expanded school is anticipated to be fully functional from September 2017.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “This area has seen so much investment in new and improved housing over the last few years but the schools haven’t expanded at the same rate. The school desperately needs extra space to accommodate its pupils and will really benefit from these new facilities.”

Head teacher at Pennycross Carole Waziri said: “This extension will raise the profile of Pennycross within the community and will enable us to grow alongside the increasing community.  We are very excited that this project is underway.”

Councillor Evans added: “We are very proud of our schools and investing in their future is essential if we are to maintain our high standards and encourage families to raise their children in Plymouth. Our ultimate aim is that no matter where a child lives, they can expect excellent education from a first class local school.”