New school a landmark moment - headteacher

The headteacher of a school that is to be demolished and rebuilt has said she is delighted the plans have been approved as new images of how it will look are released.

Stow Heath Primary School in Willenhall, on the edge of Wolverhampton, was earmarked for redevelopment as part of the Department for Education's (DfE) school rebuilding programme, with the government describing the current building as "not fit for purpose".

Plans to redevelop it were approved earlier this month and add a 33-place nursery and 20 more places for pupils with special educational needs.

Headteacher Lisa Scoffham said it was a "landmark moment" and everyone was "excited to see this vision become a reality".

"We are absolutely delighted that plans for our new school building have been confirmed," she said.

"This is a landmark moment for Stow Heath Primary School and a major investment in the future of our children.

"The new building will provide modern, high-quality learning environments that will enhance the educational experience of every pupil and create opportunities for generations to come."

Approving the scheme, planning officers said it represented a "substantial investment" in educational infrastructure and would provide "modern, fit-for-purpose facilities".

Older buildings will be replaced, with improved external learning and recreation spaces added, along with better parking, access and landscaping.

In the place of the current U-shaped school building, a two-storey, L-shaped building is to be created, in addition to a multi-use games area.

The redevelopment work will be delivered in phases to enable the school to remain operational throughout the construction period.

Developers are aiming to complete construction in time for the 2028/29 school year.

Jacqui Coogan, cabinet member for children, young people and education at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "This is fantastic news for Stow Heath Primary School and the wider community.

"The redevelopment will provide modern, high-quality facilities that will benefit generations of pupils, while ensuring staff have the environment they need to deliver the very best education and support."

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