This just in from IWC, in their words. Ed
Pupils and staff will begin their long-awaited move into the state of the art new Cowes Enterprise College in September.
The move, which will be in stages to assist a smooth and safe transition, will be completed during that term.
Public events
The school and the Isle of Wight Council is now arranging a series of events in July to demonstrate the new £32m-plus million building to parents. Details of these – as well as a definitive timetable for the move – will be released shortly.
Confirmation of the move date comes after the Isle of Wight Council signed a certificate of completion. This means the council is now satisfied the building is of a sufficient standard and state of readiness to be handed over to it.
Minor snagging
Though there is still a need to undertake relatively minor ‘snagging’ the signing of the certificate is nevertheless an important step forward as it now means work can begin to install the IT equipment. It also means the process via which staff and pupils can familiarise themselves with the building can begin from September.
Councillor Richard Priest, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for children’s service, said:
“The council’s priority has always been to ensure that Cowes Enterprise College is completed to the agreed standard and specification and, most importantly of all, is fit to offer a quality learning experience in a safe environment.
“I am pleased that, after ensuring a number of significant issues have been addressed, we have now reached that stage.”
Councillor Chris Whitehouse, IW Council conservative group member with responsibility for children’s services, said:
“Our task as a local authority is to support the college in ensuring the quality of the education offered and also that the achievements of pupils match the impressive nature and scope of the building.
“As ever, what happens inside the classroom is more important than the classroom itself, so we will be looking to see aspiration and achievement to match this huge investment.”
Rachael Fidler on behalf of the College Governing Body and Trust said:
“I know that the unfortunate delays to the project have caused concern and disappointment to many people connected with the college. All those who have proper knowledge of the site – and this includes governors, the trust, Government representatives, staff and teaching unions, will understand that that has not been the case until this point. Now at last we can look to the future and to realising the educational and community benefits of this ground-breaking building.”
“Recent visitors to the site, representing Academy sponsors, have commented on the high quality and exciting opportunity of the building describing the learning facilities as exceptional and amongst the best they have seen.”
