Work has officially begun to build a new 420-place primary school in a Norfolk village.
Contractors R G Carter broke ground on the build in Chaplin Road, Bradwell, earlier this month, joined by representatives from Norfolk County Council and project partners Roy Sykes Consulting and NPS Property Consultants.
The building will become the new home for Homefield CofE VC Primary School, currently based in Homefield Avenue.
It comes as the area prepares for significant housing growth, with new developments such as Bluebell Meadow set to deliver up to 1,944 new homes.
Kerry Savage, Headteacher at the primary school, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for our school community.
“Our current building has a number of limitations and our new building will enable us to provide even more opportunities and experiences for the children to learn, grow and thrive for many years to come.
“We are delighted to see work beginning and look forward to welcoming future generations of children into our new school.”
Plans for the 2,346m² new school were submitted in November 2024 before being approved in May 2025.
The two-storey building will house 14 classrooms alongside an assembly hall, kitchen and staff offices.
Alex Mackay, Director and General Manager at R G Carter, said: “We are delighted to mark the start of construction on this much-needed primary school in Bradwell, delivering a lasting benefit for its growing local community.
“As we begin work on this vital project, today’s groundbreaking is a fantastic way to celebrate our partnership with Norfolk County Council as we bring this new educational facility to life.”
Councillor Wendy Atkinson, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and SEND at Norfolk County Council, said: “Every child deserves access to a great local school and this development will help ensure that children in Bradwell can benefit from high-quality education close to where they live.
“This new school represents a significant investment in the future of our children, enabling them to flourish in their community.”
Councillor Jon Wedon, Local Member for the Lothingland ward, added: “This is fantastic news for local families.
“With more people choosing to make Bradwell and the surrounding area their home, this infrastructure is vital to ensure we have the school places and facilities needed to support growing communities.
“This groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of an exciting new chapter for education in the area.”
The new school is planned to open its doors to children and staff in September 2027.
