The start of construction on new £20.6 million premises for Ormiston Bushfield Academy in Peterborough will be marked with an official ground-breaking ceremony on Tuesday 1 March 2011.

"This is a significant milestone for the whole community," said Councillor John Holdich, Peterborough City Council's cabinet member for education, skills and university.

"When construction is completed in summer next year we will have an impressive landmark building that provides a 21st century learning environment for current and future pupils.

"In addition to the obvious benefits for staff and pupils, the improved facilities will enhance the whole area for residents while providing local companies with more highly qualified employees."

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Contractor Kier Eastern has already installed a one-third size all-weather sports pitch for the benefit of pupils while construction takes place on the site of the existing pitch. The new pitch will be extended to full size as part of the project.

Students have been closely involved in the development process through the London-based Sorrell Foundation’s Young Design Programme, which aims to improve the quality of life in schools through good design. Under the programme groups of students attended creative workshops in London and Peterborough to discuss how the use of space, colour and other visual elements can enhance the learning environment.

Architect and design consultancy Frank Shaw Associates then worked the students' ideas into proposals that are being assessed by the academy management team.

The new 9,713 square metre academy will accommodate 950 students, an increase from around 730 currently. The design features a curved, double height, fully glazed entrance opening on to a public plaza with a colonnade link to Orton sports centre. Once the new premises are completed in summer 2012 the existing 8,500 sq m buildings will be demolished.

(CD/GK)