Stoke-on-Trent's Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme is continuing apace as Wates Construction has successfully completed the first phase of three school projects.

Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy, Birches Head High School and Trentham High School are already benefitting from new and improved facilities in the transformation of the city's educational landscape.  

The schools are three of 9 within Stoke-on-Trent's BSF programme that Wates was appointed to part-deliver through a joint venture with Thomas Vale.

Construction of the £19m Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy the existing Academy on Beaconsfield Drive. Works completed to-date include re-located grass sports pitches and a new synthetic turf sports pitch.

Trentham High School is undergoing a £3.5m remodeling and refurbishment project that comprises works to improve circulation and disabled access, refurbishment of the PE and swimming pool changing facilities and improvements to the science and reception area. The school is already enjoying a remodeled Art and Technology block and external courtyard which were part of Wates' phase one works and carried out on a very tight programme in order to meet the new school year.

The £3m refurbishment of Birches Head High School includes the construction of seven new science classrooms, relocation of the kitchen areas, and sports pitch improvements. Phase one works saw Wates complete a renovation of the school's Learning Resource Centre, staff room and improvements to the sports pitch drainage.

Andy Hands, Business Manager of Wates Construction in the Midlands, commented: "The on-time, on-budget phase one completion of these three school projects demonstrates the efficient progress we are making with Stoke-on-Trent's BSF programme. We have already commenced delivery of the next phases as we work towards completion of these schools in 2012/13. We are very proud of the role we are playing in the city's transformation and we will continue to maximise our presence in Stoke-on-Trent through the creation of employment and training opportunities for local people."

Councillor Ruth Rosenau, Stoke on Trent City Council cabinet member for regeneration, said 'It is very pleasing to see work underway and progressing well on our new City schools. The Building Schools for the Future programme will deliver first class facilities for our City students.'

The schools will be complete in 2012 with students at Birches Head and Trentham moving in to their new facilities for commencement of the 2012/13 school year and Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews opening in January 2013.