WORK has begun to build the first newest school in Malvern for more than 25 years.

A sod cutting ceremony at a site in Link Top, held on Monday, (January 30) marked the start of the construction of Worcestershire County Council's newest school - Malvern Vale Primary.

The project to build the school, next to Malvern Vale Community Centre, is costing £4 million and forming part of the Mercian Educational Trust.

The scheme is an expansion of the existing Somers Park Primary School, sharing headteacher Chris Hansen and resources, but having its own identity and uniform.

The local area has been identified as an area in need of more school places and Malvern Vale Primary will increase capacity and accommodate pupils from the new housing developments already being built.

Mr Hansen said: “We are delighted that the build of the new school has begun and are looking forward to preparing it for our new starters in September 2017.

"It is an exciting opportunity for children, staff and the wider community, who will all have a significant role in shaping the education provided at Malvern Vale Primary School.

"As a part of the Somers Park family, we look forward to developing intelligent, resourceful, rounded and successful young people, who love learning and love coming to school.

"Malvern Vale Primary School will have its own identity and its own distinct uniform, but under a shared leadership we will be able to make best use of resources and expertise to ensure that all of the children in our schools get the very best educational experience. I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the community and most importantly, getting to know the children and parents.”

The project has been funded by Worcestershire County Council and project managed by Place Partnership. The school will grow as each year group joins, taking it from reception through in time to year six accommodating up to 210 pupils.

In addition, the new facilities will include hard play areas, a netball court, soft landscaping and access to an existing junior sports pitch. There will also be a small car park for staff and disabled vehicle users, as well as storage for bicycles.

Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for children and families, Councillor Marc Bayliss, added: "Somers Park is a well-respected local community school and, I believe, under their stewardship will deliver outstanding educational outcomes to the children in Malvern within their new school buildings at Malvern Vale.

"We have worked with parents and schools to come to this decision as a response to the growing need for school places in the area and it will be a great asset for this growing community."

Building contractor Speller Metcalfe’s divisional director, Bill Cave, said: "As a local company we are focused on employing sub-contractors from within 30 miles of the site; which helps promote new opportunities and contribute to our local economy.

"The innovative construction methods we are using will also help to create a sustainable, lower impact school for Malvern.”