Issue 505 – Melksham’s new school opens

As pupils arrived at the new Melksham Oak Community School for the first time on Monday 12th July, the dawn of a new era began for education in the area.

The £32.6m state-of-the-art school, which will deliver not only educational opportunities but which can also benefit the local community in “out- of-school” hours, was in full use by the end of the day.
During the week, members of the public had a chance to wander through the school's spacious corridors and impressive classrooms.
Set amongst landscaped grounds, which incorporate the ancient oak tree from which the school derives its name, the school is structured around clearly identifiable blocks, seven in all, labelled A to G. In addition to the blocks there are new outdoor sports and recreation facilities including a multi-use games area and an all-terrain pitch.
The school has been equipped with the latest in educational technology and equipment and furnished in a contemporary style.
Headteacher at the school, Stephen Clark said, "My staff and students alike feel delighted and indeed privileged to have the opportunity to move into the fantastic new Melksham Oak Community School this summer.
"Right from its original concept, the new school has always had the 21st century educational and community needs of both the students and people of Melksham at heart. Now that concept has become reality and moving into the new school and being able to get to work is a very exciting prospect for us all.
"We are proud not only of our superb new school but of our Technology College status and I know that the new facilities that we have at the new school will enable my team to make Melksham Oak into a true centre of excellence for technology learning in this country."