Work has begun to build an extension to Mildenhall College Academy – significantly increasing capacity at the secondary school.
Project managers Concertus have appointed Pentaco Construction to deliver the extension, which will provide space for seven new classrooms, toilet facilities, office spaces and a dining area. In total, it could increase capacity to 1,500 students.
Alterations to the existing school building have enabled work to begin, with foundation works well underway.
Jamie Silverton Webb, Contracts Manager at Pentaco Construction, said: “A fantastic milestone [was] reached at Mildenhall as we officially marked the start of works with a groundbreaking ceremony for the new school extension.
“It was great to welcome representatives from the client team along with teachers and staff to site to celebrate the beginning of this exciting project.
“With works now underway, we look forward to delivering a high-quality new learning environment that will benefit both students and staff for years to come.”
The school relocated to the current site, known as Mildenhall Hub, in 2021 – a complex comprising community services and offices for public sector organisations.
Laura Morris De’ath, Associate for Design at Concertus, said: “It’s great to be back on site at Mildenhall Hub to mark this important milestone in the expansion of Mildenhall College Academy.
“The project forms part of the original masterplan, delivering high-quality accommodation to support the Academy in providing excellent learning opportunities for its students.”
Plans for the extension were given the green light by Suffolk County Council last year.
A Suffolk County Council spokesman added: “We are pleased to be working alongside Concertus and Pentaco Construction to deliver additional classroom space at Mildenhall College Academy and are grateful to school colleagues, West Suffolk Council and wider tenants and users of the Hub for supporting the school expansion.”
Works are due to complete in spring 2027.
