Wates Construction has begun work on the third and final teaching block at Coundon Court Secondary School in Coventry, a key milestone in the Department for Education's (DfE) School Rebuilding Programme.

The occasion was marked by a ground‑breaking event attended by representatives from Wates Construction, the DfE, Coundon Court School and Mace, recognising progress towards a modern, inclusive learning environment for pupils and staff.

Appointed by the DfE, Wates is delivering extensive demolition and new‑build works across the 15.5‑hectare campus. Four redundant teaching blocks have been demolished, two new classroom buildings are already complete and in use, and construction of the final block signals the project's approach to completion.

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Once finished, the reconfigured site will accommodate 1,800 students, including those with special educational needs. A robust logistics strategy and carefully phased delivery have enabled construction to proceed safely within a live school environment while keeping disruption to learning to a minimum.

New facilities are being integrated with four retained buildings and two locally listed assets — the Old House and Coundon Court Lodge — to create an open campus that balances contemporary education needs with the site's historic character.

Sustainability is embedded throughout. Most existing trees will be retained, with additional planting to enhance biodiversity. In line with the DfE's commitment to reach net zero carbon across its estate by 2050, the new buildings are designed to be net zero carbon in operation.

"The start of the final teaching block marks an important step forward in the school's long-term transformation into a modern, sustainable and inclusive campus. Working in close partnership with the Department for Education and the school community, we are delivering exceptional education facilities that will support local children for years to come." said Stewart Forbes, Operations Director at Wates Construction.