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Schools taking in more pupils
Pupils will be able to learn in their own towns thanks to school extensions.
Proposals to expand Fairfield Park Lower School in Stotfold and Shefford Lower School have been approved by councillors at Central Beds Council’s executive committee.
Both schools will be extended to provide 150 extra spaces. This will mean a total of 450 places at Shefford Lower School and Fairfield Park Lower School’s capacity will be doubled to 300 spaces.
Tracey Callender, headteacher at Shefford Lower School, said: “For a number of years the lower school has operated at above its actual capacity and it has been able to accommodate additional pupils by delivering a number of minor extensions.
“With recent and planned housing development in Shefford, this expansion will enable us to continue to provide places for local children at their local school.
“We are really looking forward to growing further within our community.”
Both schools have a growing population in their catchment areas so the places are much needed by the local communities.
Executive member for children’s services at Central Beds Council, Councillor Mark Versallion, said: “We’ve worked closely with both the schools throughout this process and I am confident that they will both build on their success in supporting local children to reach their potential.
“The consultations showed strong support for the plans. But some concerns were raised about potential increased traffic congestion and possible disruption to teaching and learning.
“I’d like to reassure local residents and parents that we will be working with the schools to minimise any negative transport issues and the impact on current pupils.”
Jenny Stone, headteacher at Fairfield Park Lower School, added: “The extra capacity is much needed and means we will be able to meet our passionate philosophy of offering local places for local families.
“We are really looking forward to growing further within our community and building on our success since we opened in 2007.”
Fairfield Park Lower School’s alterations include extending the hall, adding additional classrooms and increasing the number of on-site parking spaces.
Shefford Lower School’s building will be extended and two new play areas will be created.
Approval was given on August 21. Work will start immediately and it will be finished by September 2013.
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Weather for Biggleswade
Sunday 19 May 2013
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