Excitement filled the air at Bracken Lane Primary Academy as we officially unveiled our newly remodelled and extended building on Monday 2 March 2026. As part of Diverse Academies Trust, we were delighted to welcome staff, pupils and invited guests to celebrate this important milestone for our academy community.
The event marked the completion of a phased building extension designed to enhance our learning environment. The project delivered two new classrooms alongside extensive alterations and refurbishment of existing teaching areas, to ensure sufficient, high-quality space for our pupils.
This transformation forms part of a significant investment in the future of our academy. The project was supported by £800,000 of Section 106 contributions via Nottinghamshire County Council, alongside a £1.2 million investment from Diverse Academies Trust. Together, this funding reflects a shared commitment to providing high quality learning environments for the local community.
As a result of the improvements, we now benefit from a new extension housing our year 5 and year 6 classrooms, enlarged learning spaces for years 3 and 4, and remodelled areas for our early years and key stage 1 children, complete with new toilet facilities. Additional enhancements include an extended school hall, a dedicated library space and a range of further improvements that support an outstanding environment for both children and staff.
Our pupils played a central role in the official opening event. Guests enjoyed a confident performance from our academy’s young voices choir before being guided on tours of the remodelled building, proudly led by the children themselves.
Principal, Helen Cawkill, said: “It has been a fantastic day at the academy and a wonderful opportunity to showcase our new learning environment. With this expansion, we are not simply adding space, we are creating dynamic environments that inspire learning and foster a strong sense of community.”
Executive Principal, Lucy Spacey, added: “The transformational impact of these renovations cannot be overstated. We have not only increased our learning spaces but also created a more inclusive and accessible environment for every member of our academy community.”
Diverse Academies Trust Chief Executive Officer, David Cotton, commented: “This investment demonstrates our long-term commitment to providing exceptional learning environments for the children and families we serve. By working in partnership with local authorities and through responsible use of Section 106 funding, we are ensuring that Bracken Lane Primary Academy continues to grow, improve and deliver high quality education for our community.”
As we continue to build on this strong foundation, these recent improvements demonstrate our ongoing commitment to delivering the highest quality education and an exceptional learning environment for every child.
