St Bernard's new £8.7m teaching block officially opened

Ribbon cutting at St Bernard's new block, form left: David Rhodes, Chairman of Lincolnshire Wolds Federation; Patricia Bradwell from LCC; and Lea Mason, CEO of the Lincolnshire Wolds Federation. Photos: Mick Fox

The £8.7million project saw the creation of a new teaching block as well as an extension and refurbishment of the existing building, which was officially opened this morning (Friday).

The work included the creation of improved teaching facilities, dedicated hygiene suites, kitchen, dining space, laundry area and meeting room, as well as renovated medical and professional areas, increased office and break out spaces, a new library, and enhanced parking.

The building work was carried out by Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd, with the funding provided by the county council.

St Bernard’s executive headteacher Lea Mason, said: “As a community we are extremely pleased with the new building and improvements, to St Bernard's and Maples, that have been undertaken.

"Through our shared values of Community, Connection and Communication, our aim is continually and consistently to assist our students in reaching their full potential.

"This new build as well as the remodelling works has and will be incredibly supportive, to that end, in providing access to appropriate, purpose-built spaces, both inside and out.

“The impact of this work is far reaching and will continue to be for many years to come. Our pupils and students both current and into the future now have access to a purpose built and considered environment that will continue to provide many learning opportunities and access to world of work experiences, not only for our students, but also the local community."

St Bernards's official opening of the new building.

Coun Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children's services at Lincolnshire County Council, said that the county council is investing £100m in improving special schools to ensure that all children can access high-quality education, as near to their family and local community as possible.

"Our ambitious programme will mean more pupils with SEND can attend a local school rather than having to travel large distances for their education, which will be of great benefit to both the children and their families,” she said, “I’m confident that these fantastic new facilities at St Bernard’s will make a real difference to the pupils there, both now and in the future.”