New multi-million pound science block opens

New science block opens

A new multi-million pound science block has opened at Saint Benedict Catholic Voluntary Academy.

The block has been built on the tennis courts at the front of north block on the school site in Duffield Road.

The building is a venture between the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust and Derby City Council, to support Derby with a surge in the population of children going into Year 7 this year and last year.

The school has also been selected to be part of the Government’s School Rebuilding programme and is waiting for more detail in terms of timescales and what this will entail.

Previously, science classrooms at Saint Benedict were spread out across the school site and Headteacher, Mrs Boyce, said the new block was a fantastic addition.

She said: “The new science block is incredible and a much-needed improvement at Saint Benedict. To have the whole department all together, under one roof is a dream come true.

“The benefit to our pupils is going to be immense and their delight at the new block is a joy to behold! The innovative design of the building coupled with the wide expanse of glass in all the labs makes it a beautiful environment in which to learn. We would encourage parents and children who are moving into Year 7 next year to come along and see the new block for themselves at our open evening on Thursday, September 26^th.”

Dr Mistry, Director of Learning, Science at Saint Benedict, said: “At last, the science department is together in our new science block!  M block contains 12 bespoke laboratories, each fitted with an interactive whiteboard, and specialist prep rooms, this move will ensure that the science teachers are able to deliver the already robust curriculum in new and innovative ways.”

Kevin Gritton, Chief Executive Officer at St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust, said: “It is fantastic to see this new building at Saint Benedict and we know that it is a welcome boost for staff and pupils. We hope that this is just the start of an exciting new chapter for Saint Benedict after the school was also selected to be part of the Government’s School Rebuilding programme.”