Samuel Barlow Primary Academy opens huge £3m building extension

Oscar Fisher

28 April 2024 at 8:45 am·2-min read

Pictured is staff and pupils from Samual Barlow Primary Academy — Staff and pupils cut the ribbon at Samual Barlow Primary Academy -Credit:Diverse Academies

A Nottinghamshire school's staff, children and parents celebrated the launch of a new building extension, bringing a four-year project to an end. A crowd gathered to mark the grand opening of Samuel Barlow Primary Academy's new extension, which has been part of a four-year project costing just under £3 million.

The initiative was funded by a £1.3 million investment from Section 106 cash via Nottinghamshire County County, as well as a significant investment from the Diverse Academies Trust, which the Mansfield school is a part of, and aims to "elevate the learning environment and outcomes for all children attending the academy", a spokesperson has said.

The extension was undertaken in two phases, beginning with the purchase of the old schoolhouse and the relocation of the nursery/early years facility to the front of the building, allowing for easier access and enhanced learning spaces. This phase also saw the improvement of teaching and resource areas, as well as upgrades to classrooms and essential facilities throughout the academy.

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Phase two focused on the construction of a new multipurpose hall, modern kitchen, upgrading of the car parking facilities, ramped pedestrian access to the front of the building and an updated main entrance, addressing long-standing issues with space and functionality. Bailey Construction led the execution of this phase and overall the project was developed and delivered by GNA Surveyors and CBP Architects.

Samuel Barlow’s pupils played a central role at the official opening event, with guests and VIPs being treated to a performance from the school choir, as well as the children being centre stage for the cutting of the ribbon ceremony. Principal Sarah Kahler said: "It has been such a fantastic day here at the academy and a wonderful opportunity to showcase our new learning environment.

Pictured is the new building — The new building comes at the end of a four-year project -Credit:Diverse Academies

"With this expansion, we are not just adding new space, we are creating dynamic environments that inspire learning and foster a sense of community." Executive principal Gareth Letton added: "The transformational impact of these renovations cannot be overstated.

"Not only have we increased our capacity to accommodate more children, but we've also created a more inclusive and accessible environment for all members of our academy community." Diverse Academies Trust chief exec David Cotton added: “This has been a significant investment by the trust to improve educational provision and enhance pupil experience at Samuel Barlow Primary Academy.

"The academy has a long heritage as part of the Clipstone community and this development marks a new era for the school. We are delighted to have been able to future-proof the building and create an inspiring environment for our young learners as the academy continues to go from strength to strength.”

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