The Department for Education (DfE) has appointed Kier to deliver the Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior School project in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, providing new, state-of-the-art facilities for over 800 students.
This two-year programme involves the full redevelopment of the education campus, including the demolition of both existing schools on adjacent sites and associated external works. The transformation of the campus will create high-quality, modern and sustainable educational facilities, which will continue to be run by the Lionheart Educational Trust.
Cheryl Ward, managing director of Kier Construction Eastern & Midlands, said:
This project will provide new, first-class teaching facilities in Derbyshire, and we will use our extensive experience in delivering high-quality educational spaces to deliver two schools which will support students to achieve their full potential. It means a lot to our brilliant team and supply chain to have the opportunity to build these schools which will benefit the communities where they live.
Work has already started with the successful demolition of Mercia Academy. Clearance of Newhall Junior School is underway ahead of its safe demolition in the new year. Whilst construction is taking place, temporary accommodation has been provided for both schools so that pupils can continue their education.
Once both sites are cleared, construction will begin on building modern and sustainable state-of-the-art facilities for the students, staff, and the wider community.
Designed with the wider community in mind, Mercia Academy will feature secure access to key facilities outside school hours. Carefully zoned layouts allow members of the public to use performance spaces, vocational teaching areas, and sports facilities while maintaining safeguarding and operational boundaries. From weekend football matches and music rehearsals to cookery classes and theatre productions, the campus will serve as a valuable asset for local residents as well as pupils.
Kath Kelly, CEO of Lionheart Educational Trust, said:
We are thrilled that the Department for Education has approved the funding of a new educational campus, and we’re proud to be partnering with Kier to bring two exceptional school buildings to life for the local community. Lionheart's vision is to provide every child with outstanding educational and holistic opportunities, and these state-of-the-art facilities will enable teachers to deliver even richer learning experiences. This investment will firmly establish Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior as leading schools in the region.
The new schools will be built on piled foundations with a steel frame structure, precast composite floor slabs, and a mix of brickwork and cladding. The sustainable design approach incorporates biodiversity enhancing landscaping, green roofs, solar panels, and natural ventilation to improve energy efficiency and sustainability.
Alongside specialist teaching spaces, the project will deliver a new sports hall and drama studio, a Sport England-compliant playing field, and a dedicated bus drop-off and collection area to enhance safety and access for the pupils and their families.
As part of Kier’s continued commitment to leaving a lasting legacy for the local community, during the course of the project, Kier’s team will engage with the local community to provide local employment, apprenticeships and work experience opportunities.