New primary school opens in Faringdon

Pupils in Faringdon will be able to enjoy learning and playing in a new purpose-built school, Folly View Primary, officially opened on Thursday 24 November.  

Oxfordshire County Council has delivered the new £9 million school building for Faringdon Learning Trust to replace and expand Faringdon Infant School.

The school – for children aged between two and 11 years – consists of 17 classrooms over two floors, a spacious hall and studio, library and several staff work rooms and group rooms, ideal for breakout spaces to maximise learning opportunities. There is also a covered outside play space, playground and sport pitch.

As well as the traditional playground, there is a small habitat area where pupils can study and experience nature, gaining a better understanding of the world around them.

Councillor Liz Brighouse, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Youth Services, said: “Faringdon children will be able to learn and develop in this exciting school environment. Not only will they be taught in modern classrooms but they will also benefit from the planned ‘forest school’, the habitat area where they can get close to nature and appreciate why it’s so important to preserve and protect our environment.”

“The investment in Folly View Primary reflects the council’s commitment to give every child in Oxfordshire the very best start in life. I wish pupils, teachers and support staff the very best as they settle into their new school.”

Sharon Farrell, Folly View Primary School’s Executive Headteacher, said: “We are delighted that the opening of the wonderful new school has finally arrived. When the children and families stepped into the new building, for the first time, their faces showed it was worth the wait.”

Duncan Millard, Faringdon Learning Trust’s Chief Executive, said: "I am delighted, that after many years in the planning, staff and children have access to a brilliant learning space."  

Notes:

The image shows the opening of Folly View Primary School, in Faringdon, and features (from left to right):

Duncan Millard, Faringdon Learning Trust’s Chief Executive,

Councillor Bethia Thomas, Oxfordshire County Council

Bryn Jones, Head of Folly View Primary School,

Jo Baird, Assistant Head of Folly View Primary School,

Councillor Kiera Bentley, Mayor, Faringdon Town Council,

Sharon Farrell, Executive Headteacher of Folly View Primary School

(with children at the front)

Leo Smith and Gabrielle Santos.

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