Pictures: York school expands into ‘stunning’ new space

A York secondary school has officially opened a newly created space – and it’s stunning.

Manor CE Academy needed more space to fulfil the increased demand for student places.

The £1.1 million project includes a new classroom and an expanded dining area. constructed by adding a roof and floor to the former outside ‘rotunda’ area.

As an indoor space, the rotunda is already being used by Year 11 students during break and lunch times as a dedicated social space for their year group.

The official opening took place on Monday (9 January).

Interim principal at Manor Liz Mastin said “This has been an extensive but much-needed project within the heart of the school.

“A project of this size is always challenging, but even more so when the school is fully operational, but thankfully we had a fantastic project team who all worked together brilliantly.

“It’s wonderful to see our students enjoying the space and moving through the building in a calmer, safer fashion.”

Martin Kelly, corporate director of children services and education at City of York Council, said: “This project has been a true showcase of collaboration in action with all partners working together to create a stunning space.

“The end result is one of the most creative projects I have seen in a school and I look forward to hearing how the Manor team utilises the space as part of their delivery of excellent education.”

The Together Group Construction Ltd were appointed as approved contractors for the project, alongside York-based design and project management specialists, Gate & Bar Ltd.  

Manor CE Academy is part of the Hope Sentamu Learning Trust.