Council approves grant for school rebuild

A £2.4m grant contribution for a major rebuilding programme at a school has been approved by Warrington Borough Council’s Cabinet.The funding, which will contribute to an overall major investment in Penketh High School, will enable two of the current school blocks to be replaced and refurbishment works to be carried on the main building to make it “fit-for-purpose for 21st century education”.The refurbishment will also see an increase in places at the school from 180 to 210, including the continued offer of a designated special education provision.Penketh High School converted to academy status in 2013 and became part of The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) in 2017. The planned investment in the school improvements is part of a collaborative financial contribution from the Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) and the council.It forms part of the plans to ensure that there is sufficient, high quality school accommodation for young people in West Warrington. Projections suggest that growth in the secondary sector means demand for places will increase during the next five years.Cllr Sarah Hall, cabinet member children’s services, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity that will see the transformation of Penketh High School. These refurbishment works will bring huge benefits to the school, teachers and pupils, and will enable the school to become a centre of excellence for training.”This is about investing in the future of an important school site, providing teachers and pupils with the high quality, modern environment they need to achieve excellence in education.”I’m delighted that the council has agreed to contribute to these works, which will support the school’s ongoing growth and development, and leave it well equipped to meet the needs of young people, now and in the future.”