Pupils in Faringdon will be able to enjoy learning and playing as the new purpose-built Folly View Primary School in Faringdon was officially opened on Thursday, 24 November.
The new £9 million school building was delivered by Oxfordshire County Council for Faringdon Learning Trust to replace and expand Faringdon Infant School.
The school – for children between two and 11 years old – consists of 17 classrooms over two floors, a spacious hall and studio, a library and several staff work rooms and group rooms, ideal for breakout spaces to maximise learning opportunities. There is also a covered outside play space, playground and sports pitch.
As well as the traditional playground, there is a small habitat area where pupils can study and experience nature, gaining a better understanding of the world around them.
Councillor Liz Brighouse, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Youth Services, said: “Faringdon children will be able to learn and develop in this exciting school environment.
“Not only will they be taught in modern classrooms, but they will also benefit from the planned ‘forest school’, the habitat area where they can get close to nature and appreciate why it’s so important to preserve and protect our environment.”
“The investment in Folly View Primary reflects the council’s commitment to give every child in Oxfordshire the very best start in life. I wish pupils, teachers and support staff the very best as they settle into their new school.”
Sharon Farrell, Folly View Primary School’s Executive Headteacher, said: “We are delighted that the opening of the wonderful new school has finally arrived. When the children and families stepped into the new building, for the first time, their faces showed it was worth the wait.”
Duncan Millard, Faringdon Learning Trust’s Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that after many years in the planning, staff and children have access to a brilliant learning space.”
The cover image shows the opening of Folly View Primary School in Faringdon and features (from left to right):
Duncan Millard, Faringdon Learning Trust’s Chief Executive
Councillor Bethia Thomas, Oxfordshire County Council
Bryn Jones, Head of Folly View Primary School
Jo Baird, Assistant Head of Folly View Primary School
Councillor Kiera Bentley, Mayor, Faringdon Town Council
Sharon Farrell, Executive Headteacher of Folly View Primary School (with children at the front)
Leo Smith and Gabrielle Santos.
