MORE than 200 new school places have been created at St Keyna Primary School in Keynsham.
A £5.3 million expansion has doubled the school’s size, allowing it to have two separate classes for each year group and accommodate 420 children.
The new building, which opened this term, has been constructed to Passivhaus energy-efficient standards with the aim of reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption costs in the long term.
The new teaching spaces have been designed to provide more consistent internal temperatures and better acoustics, helping children concentrate on their learning in a comfortable environment.
The £5.3m investment by Bath & North East Somerset Council also includes a dipping pond, new outdoor play equipment, a new football pitch and a second pedestrian entrance on Kelston Road.
The project was funded by a grant from the government’s Department for Education and contributions from property developers. The scheme will make places for children from new housing developments as the town’s population grows.
Councillor Paul May, B&NES Council cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It’s wonderful to see children enjoying their new learning spaces at St Keyna Primary.
“The opening of the expanded building is a positive moment for families in Keynsham, enabling more children to learn close to home in a building designed around their needs.
“By investing in a highly energy-efficient school, we’re showing our commitment not only to better long-term outcomes for children, but also to taking meaningful action on the climate emergency by reducing carbon emissions.”
St Keyna Primary School is due to hold an official opening ceremony later this spring.
Sue McGrain, chair of governors, said: “We’re delighted with our new building. It’s a lovely environment for the children to learn in, as it has been finished beautifully with a lot of thought given to aesthetic qualities.
“Because it has been built to Passivhaus standards, we’re looking forward to low energy bills which will allow us to spend more of our income directly on the children. We’re also very excited about the developments to the grounds, which will provide even more opportunities for the children to play, relax and learn in the outdoor environment.”
Designed by Quattro Design Architects of Gloucester, the nine-month build was completed by Bath-based construction company H Mealing & Sons. Also part of the design team were Method Consulting, Curtins and Zero Energy.
Pictured below, St Keyna Primary School children with Councillor Paul May and Sue MacGrain, chair of the school governors
