Construction has commenced on Wednesfield Technology Primary in Wolverhampton. The site will replace the former Edward the Elder building, which has been derelict since 2007.
The historic 112-year-old building was demolished in June last year, making way for the new technology primary school, which is set to open in September 2024 and will be part of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust.
Tom Hallett, acting on behalf of Tilbury Douglas Construction Ltd., said: “The retention of the former lodge building will maintain an important link to the history of the site and will be used by the school as a family hub. Additional landscape planting to enhance the site will provide diversity and ecology value.”
“And of course this sees the redevelopment of a long-standing vacant brownfield site within a sustainable location ideally placed to serve the growing needs of the community.”
The dark stone from the former school, which dates back to 1910, has been carefully preserved and stored on the site, where it will be repositioned adjacent to the entrance of the new school.
“The development will deliver a range of benefits, including the creation of new jobs during both the construction phase and as part of the future occupation of the school with up to 45 full and part-time positions.” Hallett added.
The school has been designed to inspire new ways of teaching, offering a specialised technology-based curriculum which equips pupils to harness the effective and personalised use of technology to enhance their learning.
Wednesfield Technology Primary will also be designed to meet the Passivhaus classic standard, with energy efficiency and building performance at its heart. The school will utilise eco-friendly technologies and sustainable, low-embodied carbon materials with the aim of reducing energy usage.
The school will open with spaces for 26 nursery children, 60 reception, 120 key stage 1 and 240 key stage 2 pupils.
