West Berkshire school unveils new extension

B Block at Willink school in Burghfield has enabled more pupils to attend

Author: Jonathan RichardsPublished 22nd Nov 2023
Last updated 22nd Nov 2023

A two-storey building at the Willink School in Burghfield has been officially opened.

The building, which is known as ‘B Block’ by staff and pupils, was constructed by the Council at a cost of almost £3 million and was completed in 2022 to meet the increased capacity requirements of 75 more pupils from a nearby new housing development.

B Block houses 7 new classrooms, a humanities office, a history seminar room, central store, WC’s and an English office. In addition, 3 science classrooms, enlarged changing rooms and 2 social science classrooms have been remodelled and refurbished. There is also expanded accommodation to enhance provision for students with Special Educational Needs. Twenty extra car parking spaces have also been added to the school site.

Heather Codling, West Berkshire’s Executive Member for Children, Education and Young People's Services said:

“This is an impressive project that has enriched the learning and teaching experience of pupils and staff immeasurably. After just a year, it is hard to imagine Willink without the wealth of space and facilities it offers.”

Nicolle Browning, Headteacher of Willink School said:

“B Block is already part of the fabric of Willink and the pupils absolutely love the extra space, not only in terms of classrooms, but getting from class to class comfortably through the wide hallways and the benefit of the air conditioning in the summer. It’s a fabulous, contemporary building that has enabled us to continue to offer first class education to our pupils and easily accommodate the new ones.”

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