Work is now well underway on the new £6.8m project at Corby Technical School, which will double the number of its students along with the size of its accommodation.  The 3,308 sq.m extension comprises extra classrooms, a drama studio, lecture theatre, media studies and music department including practice rooms plus provision for the new Sixth Form which starts this September.

Brooke Weston Trust CEO Dr Andrew Campbell, former CEO and Vice Chair of CTS, Sir Peter Simpson and the school’s Principal, Angela Reynolds, toured the building with professionals from GSS Architecture, Pick Everard, Wates, Scape Procure and Northants County Council who have all been instrumental in the design and build process.

So far the project has involved the removal of 11,000 cubic metres of soil, the pouring of foundations, drainage installation and now the steel framework and concrete flooring has been put into place on the two-storey building.

Tom Lyons, a partner in GSS Architecture said: ‘The design features for this build have been driven by the original school. We worked with the Trust to develop the brief and create the same feel and quality finishes while taking into account the site and environment.’

Olly Hatton, project manager from Pick Everard said: ‘The project is progressing well. There are currently around 30 people a day on site but as the build progresses and the finishing trades come in we may double or triple that number.’

Peter Bignell from Scape Procure said: ‘It is all about the ability to work collaboratively and everyone is so positive. We all have the same vision. Ultimately it is all about the smiles on the faces of the students when they move in so this is all about improving their opportunities.’

Currently the school has a Year 7 intake of 75, which will double to 150 when the new build, including expansion of the car park and alteration of existing classrooms, is complete. The school, which is oversubscribed, was earmarked for expansion by Northamptonshire County Council, which is funding the scheme.

Kay Ringwood, manager of school admissions and strategic planning at Northants County Council said: ‘We need student places in Corby and it is really good for us to come and see what we are spending the money on. It is a fantastic, spacious site, located right in the centre of town but with greenery and wonderful views.’

Dr Campbell, CEO of the Brooke Weston Trust, said: ‘This was an exciting first look at the next phase in Corby Technical School’s development. We are delighted to be working alongside our professional partners on the delivery of this quality build and we look forward to its completion when our students can experience its enhanced facilities and innovative learning environment for themselves.’