‘Transformative’ school build underway

A County Durham secondary school is being transformed with the creation of a new education hub.

Bowburn-headquartered Esh Construction has started work on a three-storey development at Greenfield Academy, in Newton Aycliffe.

The work is supported by funding from Durham County Council and the Advance Learning Partnership Multi Academy Trust. 

Designed to enhance subject-specific learning, the project will provide 19 classrooms along with hubs for IT, design and technology, science and art.

A new sports centre, open to the public outside school hours, will sit alongside landscaped areas, additional parking and new cycle spaces.

It will also include solar panels and air source heat pumps.

Headteacher James Keating said: “We are incredibly proud of Greenfield Academy and its importance within the community.

“This is a transformative moment for the school and all those it serves today and in the future. 

“Our new building will provide a modern, inclusive and inspiring environment that reflects the ambition we hold for every child.

“This new building represents more than just bricks and mortar – it’s an investment in our children’s future and the wider community.”

Grant Watson, construction manager at Esh, which is working with Howarth Litchfield Architects, Billinghurst George & Partners, KYOOB and Gemini on the project, said: “We’re proud to bring our extensive experience in delivering high-quality educational facilities to Greenfield Academy.

“We understand the vital role that modern, inspiring spaces play in shaping student success, and we are committed to building environments where young people can thrive.”

The redevelopment follows Greenfield Academy’s recent move into the Advance Learning Partnership. 

Set to open in autumn next year, the upgraded facilities will accommodate up to 750 students.

Councillor Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for children and young people’s services, added: “We are thrilled to see work starting on these facilities and look forward to them opening for the benefit of the whole school.”

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