New era for Chatteris school

A new era has begun for Cromwell Community College in Chatteris after the first reception pupils started at the school.

The move makes the college the first educational establishment in Cambridgeshire to offer an all through education from four to 18 years.

Pupils began their educational journey inside modern, temporary buildings, as work continues to fully complete the primary phase development.

Once finished in February 2021, the youngsters will have brand-new classrooms, a hall, playground and outdoor areas, as well as access to the college’s facilities, which include a food technology block, design technology resources and sports amenities.

The primary provision has begun as an initial one-year intake with a reception class and will grow year on year until it reaches its capacity of 210 children.

Cromwell Community College head teacher Jane Horn said: “We are absolutely thrilled to see the very first reception pupils arrive.

“They will be very much at home here. The new building will make a huge difference and provide an even greater opportunity for learning, offering state-of-the-art facilities to develop and enhance learning and wellbeing.

“The whole school, including current pupils, staff and the wider community, are so excited about the new development and we can’t wait to see it fully completed and move in next term.”

This provision will help to combat the growing need for primary school places in the Chatteris area.

Claire Macdonald, head of primary phase at Cromwell, said: “We are preparing the children for a life of learning, and having the building to do that in is essential for their development. The pupils are now settling in to the comfortable surroundings of the temporary buildings and we look forward to seeing each of them bloom and thrive.”

In line with Government guidance, social distancing is in place at the college, with all staff trained to ensure measures are adhered to.

One parent, Victoria Bradford, said: “I think the school has done a fantastic job of welcoming us back and I am very confident sending my son to Cromwell thanks to the safety measures.

“I have heard so much about the good reputation, amazing facilities and brand-new classrooms. Cromwell was my first choice and I am so excited to have my son start here.”

Morgan Sindall is the construction company delivering the full £14.6million expansion and refurbishment of the college.

The college is part of the Active Learning Trust, and the Trust’s CEO Stephen Chamberlain said: “The college is an established school right at the heart of its community with an excellent quality of education.

“Students leave the college as active learners and active citizens ready to face the joys and challenges of the modern world.

“It is a fantastic moment for all the team at Cromwell to have the first reception pupils arrive at the college. They will benefit from the maturity and confidence of the older students and develop friendships that will last a lifetime.”