Morgan Sindall Construction's North East and Cumbria division has officially broken ground on a major redevelopment project at Appleby Grammar School in Westmorland, Cumbria.

The ceremony marks the start of a series of improvement works at the comprehensive secondary school and sixth form.

Appointed by the Department for Education (DfE) under its School Rebuilding Programme, Morgan Sindall will deliver a significant package of works including the construction of a new superblock, renovation of the Grade II-listed main building—first recorded locally in 1452—and demolition of outdated extensions.

The ground-breaking event was attended by students, staff, and Headteacher Paul Nicholson, alongside representatives from Morgan Sindall, the DfE, and project management partner Mott MacDonald, who took part in traditional 'spade-in-the-ground' photos.

The planned superblock will feature modern classroom spaces, laboratories, kitchens, offices, technology hubs, and a multi-purpose main hall. The project also includes a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), improved reception facilities, and upgraded parking and drop-off areas.

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In line with Morgan Sindall's commitment to sustainability, the new block will incorporate Photovoltaic (PV) panels and Air Source Heat Pumps, while the company’s in-house carbon tracking software, CarboniCa, will be used to monitor and reduce emissions throughout construction.

Given Appleby-in-Westmorland's flood risk from the River Eden, detailed planning has been undertaken to mitigate potential drainage and ecological impacts. To ensure safety while work is carried out on the live site, a neighbouring farm has granted Morgan Sindall access to a nearby slip road to ease traffic and enhance site security.

As part of the company's social value charter, the project will provide work experience for 10 T-Level students and 10 apprentices, offering valuable hands-on training. In addition, Project Manager Brad Langstone has completed a fundraising walk from Brough to Appleby in support of local charity Slow Ways, demonstrating the team’s ongoing engagement with the community.

Alex Isted, Area Director for Morgan Sindall in the North East and Cumbria, said: "Appleby Grammar School is situated on a historic site, with roots reaching back to the 15th century, so it is an immense pleasure to preserve some of its rich history through the Grade II listed main building, which is to undergo sensitive restoration as part of our works. We are also delighted to provide the local area with a new state-of-the-art, futureproof block to serve the school for generations to come.

"We're proud to be once again working with the Department for Education on a project that will improve learning for the local community, and I look forward to seeing the progress at this brilliant school over the coming months."