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.
The school and the Isle of Wight Council is now arranging a series of events in July to demonstrate the new £32 million-plus building to parents following a series of bad publicity on the quality of the building.
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.
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 services, 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.”
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.”
Image: Isle of Wight Council
