Work has started on the new Ramsgate Free School in Newington Road.
Contractors McAvoys are on site removing existing buildings before the project to create a primary school for up to 420 children aged 4-11 years old gets underway.
First steps for the specially-designed school complex will be sowing the grass seeds for the playing field and preparing the playground area.
Head of School Nick Budge said: “It is terrific to see the clearance work well underway. Once the ground preparation has been completed we will put the buildings in place. These are being made to our specifications in Ireland and will be shipped in during May and June.”
A recording studio and music centre
The two-storey building will feature state of the art technology and will include its own recording studio, dance facilities, art room and dedicated music centre. It will also have its own school hall and kitchens.
Mr Budge said: “Ramsgate Free School will evolve into Ramsgate Arts Primary School when it moves because of the excellent arts-based facilities and the specialist staff who have been recruited.”
“Arts afternoons all week is something that is not being offered by other schools. The school believes balanced learning is key for its children who study core subjects through the International Primary Curriculum during their morning sessions before developing their creative potential after lunch break.
“Pupils’ work will be showcased in art exhibitions, shows and performances to highlight their skills.”
Moving in
The school will move into Newington Road from 18 August and will be ready to welcome pupils and parents at the start of the school year in September.
Ramsgate Free School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Junior School and Chilton Primary School.
Trust Executive Head Teacher Michaela Lewis said: “The new school design will be bright and airy with first class facilities. It will provide the best learning environment for our children to grow and reach their potential.”
Ramsgate Free School is temporarily based at Chilton Primary School at Pegwell Bay, where it opened in September 2015. It is now educating 70 pupils from Reception, Year 1, 3 and 4 classes.