CONSTRUCTION work has started on a major extension at Weston's Ashcombe Primary School.

A ground-breaking ceremony took place this week to celebrate the project kick-off.

Principal contractor John Perkins Construction was joined by key school staff members and trustees, as well as Hookway Chartered Surveyors, and BBA Architects.

Ashcombe Primary School, part of Kaleidoscope Multi Academy Trust, on Earlham Grove, was originally built in 1969. It has expanded over the years, but some of the facilities are no longer suitable for purpose.

The new-build, timber-framed extension will provide fresh, modern classrooms, staff office space, a servery and an entrance reception area.

The construction works are due for completion next spring. The school will remain open throughout, with John Perkins Construction ensuring the highest levels of health and safety.

Simon Marriott, Kaleidoscope Multi Academy Trust chief executive, said: "The new extension will be an incredible place for Ashcombe’s children, families and staff.

"It is the culmination of four years of hard work by school leaders and Kaleidoscope Multi-Academy Trust.

"We have been well supported by Hookway Chartered Surveyors, John Penrose MP, John Perkins Construction, North Somerset Council and BBA Architects & Planners.

"The finished building will be modern, spacious, and built to the latest environmental standards. We are delighted that the Ashcombe community will benefit from this exciting project.”

Ashcombe headteacher John Clark said: "Our children and local community have had a tough old time of it over the pandemic, so this fabulous new facility brings us all much-deserved hope, excitement and optimism for the future.

"Our children and local community will go from strength to strength in such high quality accommodation.”

Alex Jenkins, commercial director of John Perkins Construction, said: “It’s fantastic to be on site for another project at Ashcombe Primary School, having last been here in 2012, when we built an extension to the children’s centre.

"We know that construction projects are, by their nature, disruptive, but they can also be a learning experience, and we’re keen to get the students involved, as their school enters an exciting new phase.”