A NEW £1.64million two-storey classroom block is rapidly taking shape at Withycombe Raleigh Church of England primary school in Exmouth.

Due to be completed in September, the state-of-the-art classrooms will allow the school to gradually increase pupil numbers from 500 to 630 in the coming years.

Financed by Devon County Council, the new building is part of DCC’s expansion programme, providing additional school places in Exmouth to meet soaring demand due to an increase in births, “inward migration” and housing growth in the area.

“We are delighted to have this wonderful expansion to our school, allowing us the opportunity to enhance our learning environment for all pupils,” said Stephen Powley, Headteacher, Withycombe Raleigh C of E Primary School. “This high level of investment in Exmouth schools supports the continued opportunity for educational excellence locally.”

The new block – which replaces old and redundant temporary wooden buildings – will accommodate classrooms, group rooms and a new community/training room.

The building – which has green credentials from an “efficient build construction”, underfloor heating and “sensitive” lighting – will also allow the school to extend learning and support activities across the local community.

“This will be a modern, light and flexible learning space to support and motivate our learners,” said Mr Powley.

Work began on the block in December 2012. Apart from a slight delay early on, it’s on track to be completed by early September, in time for the new term.

The school says it has worked ‘closely’ with the local authority, NPS (Design Team) and ISG (building contractors) to “ensure that this will provide an excellent and high-quality learning environment for years to come”.

“The School Governors and I have been involved with the local authority, design team and building contractors every step of the way,” said Mr Powley. “We are very excited about moving into our new building early next term.”

Pupils are equally enthusiastic.

“I am excited because this will be the first building we have with two storeys,” said a year 5 child.

“I’m excited about the top floor because I can’t wait to see what it is like from there,” said a Year 2 pupil.