THE first stage of works to expand an Andover secondary school has been completed with a frame-signing ceremony.

Teachers and students from Winton Community Academy, along with representatives from Morgan Sindall and stakeholders, met at the site on Friday, March 15, to celebrate their milestone by signing their names onto the timber frame.

The £5m project will see the construction of a new teaching block, designed to provide essential classroom space and a double-height sports hall to complement the existing secondary school facilities.

The project is being delivered on behalf of Hampshire County Council to help meet the Andover’s need for expanded and improved school spaces, taking the school’s planned admission number from 900 to 1,050.

READ MORE: Plans revealed for new block at Winton Community Academy in Andover

Rebecca Clark, Associate Principal at Winton Community Academy, said: “At Winton, we are all delighted with the progress of our brand-new building. Having a beautiful school hall in which to welcome guests, congregate with many students all together, and to welcome in the community for events, is such an exciting move forward.  

“We welcome the addition of our two new-state-of-the-art science laboratories, enabling us to extend and improve access to practical science learning. Our two new classrooms are also vital as our school community continues to grow. 

“It is so exciting to see the plans for the landscaped areas between our buildings, with beautiful planting, peaceful areas to sit and eat, and improved social areas for breaktimes. The much-improved bike and scooter storage space at the front of our site will make greener ways to travel to school a reality for our young people.  

“This is a building that encapsulates the excellent experience and environment we want for every child at Winton Community School, and as we look to the future, we are grateful to all of those who have worked hard to make it happen.” 

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The extension is expected to be completed in August.

construction. More site visits for students are being planned following the CLT-signing event. 

Clifford Kinch, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “This momentous occasion not only celebrates our progress at Winton Community Academy, but also allows the children to envision the remarkable space they will soon inhabit. 

“This project represents Morgan Sindall’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality educational facilities while fostering engagement with the local community and inspiring the next generation of construction professionals. 

“We look forward to project progressing towards its completion, enriching the educational landscape for generations to come.”