Our school leaders and staff at Chigwell Primary Academy are today celebrating the news that the academy has been selected to be on the Government’s list to rebuild.
The long-awaited good news comes after seven years of lobbying for investment by the school and the Trust to make sure the school buildings and facilities are fit for purpose.
Chigwell Primary Academy joined REAch2 in 2015 and it was clear even then that significant funding was needed from the Government to address years of dilapidation and repair needs.
In June earlier this year, over 350 parents and staff signed a petition organised by the school and REAch2 to make the case to Government for the need for a new school building.
Our Chief Executive Cathie Paine remarks:
“The school has been in urgent need of major capital investment since the school joined the REAch2 family in 2015 and there has been a huge effort since then to explore ways to make the buildings fit for purpose, despite the brilliant job that the whole school team do day in, day out to create a warm and nurturing environment in which children can thrive. “
Our Chief Executive Cathie Paine remarks:
“The school has been in urgent need of major capital investment since the school joined the REAch2 family in 2015 and there has been a huge effort since then to explore ways to make the buildings fit for purpose, despite the brilliant job that the whole school team do day in, day out to create a warm and nurturing environment in which children can thrive. “
Children still thrive at the school despite the challenges of the building. Elaine Brook, Executive Headteacher of Chigwell Primary Academy adds:
“As a school, we work tirelessly to ensure the children have the best learning experiences possible and this has been challenging in our current building. The opportunities this new building will provide for our children are exciting to consider. Our school community has been faithful and supported the school through this challenging time and this is something we can all celebrate.”
Local MP, Dame Eleanor Laing has played a key role in supporting the school. She comments:
"This is great news. I have had several meetings with the Minister and have presented evidence of the urgent need for new buildings for the School. I am delighted that plans can now go ahead for this much needed project. Chigwell Primary Academy is a great school. It has brilliant teachers and supportive parents. We can now look forward to future generations of children benefitting from new buildings."