£8 million invested in children’s futures

An £8 million investment in Somerset children’s futures has seen pupils and staff returning after the summer holidays through the doors of two new primary schools.

Somerset County Council invested over £8 million in building two new schools in Yeovil and Bridgwater, which will provide over 600 school places in areas of growth.

Northgate School in Bridgwater opened its doors to reception, year 1 and year 2 children this week, with further nursery and pre-school places opening in 2018.

Built with a £5.4 million investment, the community is also set to benefit from an astro pitch, dance studio and hall available for local use.

Somerset County Council also invested £2.8 million to build Primrose Lane Primary School in Yeovil to meet the town’s growing demand for school places.

The school opened its doors following the completion of an eight-classroom project including nursery.

Heather Good, executive headteacher at Northgate School, said: “It is just fantastic to be starting with a truly blank slate – the facilities are amazing, the classrooms are incredible – I feel very lucky to be here.”

Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for children and families at Somerset County Council, said: “We are determined that Somerset’s children should have the best start in life so making sure we build new schools and classrooms, particularly in areas of growth, is one of our essential tasks. I am really glad to see the two new schools open and wish the children and staff all the very best as they embark on their primary school years in their new schools.”