Pupils and staff of St Martin’s Academy in Chester are eagerly awaiting the completion of their new school building, as the final touches are made to the purpose-built classroom block.

The new building, adjoining the original 19th century vicarage on Hoole Road, will house the year groups from reception to year four, with years five and six finishing their time at St Martin’s in the ‘main house’.

Each classroom has direct access to a canopied outdoor area, with the reception class enjoying separate, specially-designed all weather outdoor provision.

Every year group will enjoy 3D Apple TVs, allowing them to embrace the latest benefits of technology in the classroom, reinforcing the school’s pledge to create ‘21st century learners’.

The building work has so far cost just over £900,000 and all measures have been taken to future proof the modern ICT structure at the school.

Construction on the site, managed by developers ISG, has progressed rapidly and the building – including a hall, kitchen and administration areas – is due to be ‘handed over’ in June – allowing parents and pupils to celebrate St Martin’s Founders Day in July with a garden party at the school.

Headteacher Wenda Smith said: “We are delighted to be bringing in the building on time and within budget.

“The wonderful purpose-built facilities will be here for years to come, to be enjoyed by and to benefit many children from the area.

“We would like to thank ISG for their professionalism in managing such a large build alongside the daily running of a school, they have done everything they can to involve and inform the children about the creation of their new school.

“Our reception class are very excited by the idea of moving into the new classrooms and we were so pleased that they were able to ‘make their mark’ on the building by signing the supporting steels that now sit inside the hall roof.

“They are equally excited about welcoming the 25 children joining us September and I’m sure they’ll be more than happy to tell their new friends all about how they helped to build their school!”