Exmouth Community College invited local dignitaries, school governors, consultants and supporters to an event to celebrate the opening of their new state-of-the-art Math’s block, at the Gypsy Lane site. An official ribbon cutting ceremony was carried out by the Principal of the College, Mr. A K Alexander followed by Cllr J McInnes who unveiled the plaque. Guests also enjoyed a tour of the new facilities; a buffet lunch; music from two students and an IT presentation.

Exmouth Community College is one of the largest secondary schools in the UK, with 2,400 students and 98% of children in the catchment area attending the school, numbers are expected to reach just under 3,000 by 2020. The schools’ vision is to create a stimulating, enjoyable and structured learning environment, where success is rewarded and all students and staff can thrive. The college converted to an academy in April 2011, and has particular expertise in mathematics and computing, with the Maths GCSE results regularly being above national average.

Construction of the two-storey detached block was funded under the Education Funding Agency (EFA); Condition Improvement Fund; Devon County Council and Exmouth Community College. Exeter-based Property design and management consultants, NPS South West handed-over the 2.5m Phase I of the new maths block project, built by Interserve, within budget and on time ready for the new autumn term.

Councillor James McInnes said: “Devon County Council has been very pleased to be involved in this project and assisted with funding of 900,000, which proves partnership produces the best results, and together, we have been able to deliver an inspirational building.”

The college has also invested in new technology for the building, including eight state-of-the-art virtual smart boards, enabling staff to engage with pupils in a more interactive way, creating virtual lessons and using educational apps.

Mr Alexander – Principal, Exmouth Community College commented: “The New Mathematics Block, consisting of eight classrooms, offices and toilets is a wonderful example of what quality building can be achieved by close communication between the school, architects and builders.

The rooms are bright and airy with adequate storage space and state of the art heating, cooling and lighting. Corridors are wide enabling easy passage for students and staff and the whole environment is conducive to high class teaching and learning. I am most grateful to NPS, Interserve and the school planning team who all co-operated so successfully to produce an inspirational building.”

www.exmouthcollege.devon.sch.uk

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