New Build Celebrates Milestone
The building, due to be the most energy-efficient in the county, incorporates the latest technological and ecological advances into an airy and innovative design and it is due to be handed over to the Brooke Weston Partnership in just seven months.
Craig Reason, the Project Manager at Willmott Dixon, welcomed on site guest including Sir Peter Simpson, Executive Principal of the Brooke Weston Partnership, Cllr Andrew Grant, portfolio holder for Education in Northamptonshire and Paul Baxter and Ruth Saxton from Nicholas Hare architects who were behind the design.
Sir Peter said it had been a 'blessed' project with the professionalism of all those involved in the build, coupled with reasonable weather, resulting in a scheme that is on time and on budget.
"All of the people involved in this building have delivered a vision that will sustain, encourage and improve the standards of education over the months and years ahead. If the school itself fulfils the promise of the building then it truly will be an outstanding and excellent school," he said.
Cllr Grant added: "During the past few years we have begun to dramatically change the educational landscape of Kettering and the introduction of two new all-through academies is the cornerstone of this change. In a year's time and for many years to come [Kettering Science Academy] will provide a first class education to children from Kettering. It provides a step-change in our children's learning in the most up-to-date facilities available. It has been designed to match the educational and management philosophies of the Brooke Weston Trust which has proved to be so successful in their existing schools in Corby."
After the speeches guests were given a tour of the 12,300 square metre building, which is arranged around a central circular courtyard that will give access to both the restaurant and library. There will be five separate faculties housed over two floors, a 650-seat theatre and a light, airy feel throughout the building. The school will house 1,300 students and each classroom is designed for just 26 students, the maximum size of the teaching group.
Principal Martin Campbell said: "There is almost an awe factor each time I walk into the building. It is the central well of the school that adds a real sense of light. We are currently in a school building that is constricted and here there is space. I am still getting used to the geography of the place but it will be when we move in, putting pictures on walls and books in cupboards that we will start to feel the ownership of it. We want the students to come in next September and get a sense of awe when they walk in for the first time."