Extension work begins at St Benedict’s

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 13th of June 2016

Work has now started on the construction of the new extension to St Benedict’s Junior School in Ealing. Headmaster Rob Simmons had the personal satisfaction of sitting in the machine which demolished the old Ark building, though he was not allowed to operate any controls – much though he may have wished to do so! Following the demolition, the digger has started excavation work for the foundations of the new building. Completion is scheduled by August 2017. The new building will sit on the same location as the old Ark, adjacent to Montpelier Avenue, but on a larger footprint within the site. It will accommodate the Pre-Prep department and the Nursery, which will move from its present location, as well as the first two year groups in Key Stage 2. The children will benefit from state-of-the-art spacious classrooms, with the Nursery and Reception classrooms opening out directly onto an outdoor learning and play area. The Junior School will also gain a new entrance hall and a Home Economics facility. Contractors Jerram Falkus, who did such a good job with the Sixth Form and Art & Design Technology building (opened in January 2016), will again be in charge of construction, working to the brief provided by architects van Heyningen and Haward. The Project Manager, Richard Pobee and his team will be working closely with the Estates Director at St Benedict’s School, Richard Ferrett.