Two new city schools on track to open in September

Two new school buildings in Derby are on target to welcome pupils in September, the city council has said.

Becket Primary School and Pear Tree Infant and Nursery School are both being rebuilt as part of the Department for Education's (DfE) £20bn national School Rebuilding Programme.

Both sites, which Derby City Council said had been designed to operate with net-zero carbon emissions, will feature modern classrooms, library spaces and group rooms, as well as new external play and PE spaces.

As a result, the schemes will create new "state-of-the-art, sustainable learning environments", the authority added.

Paul Hezelgrave, cabinet member for children, young people and skills at the council, said: "We are delighted to see work progressing on these fantastic new schools.

"This investment from the DfE will provide modern, fit-for-purpose buildings that our children deserve, built to the highest modern specifications.

"This is an investment in the long-term future of our city, providing inspiring spaces that will benefit generations of Derby pupils, staff, and the wider community for decades to come."

As part of the scheme, Pear Tree Infant and Nursery School is relocating to the playing field of the neighbouring Pear Tree Community Junior School.

The new building on Pear Tree Street will include a nursery unit following the school's merger with Walbrook Nursery School.

Once the new school is complete, its former building will be demolished and replaced with a new playing field, which will be shared by both schools.

Headteacher Bindy Suddhi said: "This development strengthens our pledge of excellence and our pride in aiming high for every child in every way.

"The new building project represents a significant investment in the future not only for current pupils but for generations to come."

Meanwhile, Becket Primary School, on Monk Street, is being rebuilt on its playing field.

Once the new building is complete, the existing structures will be demolished and a new playing field will be laid out.

Headteacher Ashley Guest said: "I'm absolutely delighted to share this moment with our children, families, staff and wider community - a moment that represents growth, ambition, and a bright future for our school.

"This purpose-built space is designed to elevate every aspect of our children's learning and wellbeing."

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