BUILDING work has begun on a new sixth form centre in Teesdale.

Barnard Castle School was given planning permission by Durham County Council in September for the new building which will be constructed in the school’s courtyard.

Archial have designed the building, which is expected “to promote an emotive and airy setting”, and to be “a well-resourced facility”, which will house children studying for their A-levels.

The sixth form centre will provide a choice of private study areas as well as collaborative space.

There will also be meeting rooms, quick access IT facilities, a mezzanine study area and silent rooms for private study.

A designated area for socialising and a teaching kitchen for skills sessions and social evenings is also included in the plans as well as a dining area.

It will have a choice of environments for studying, collaborative work, and socialising, while the school says it will also enhance the opportunity for developing life skills and gaining first-hand careers guidance on-hand, as offices dedicated to careers and Higher Education will also be available.

The proposals will require the demolition of some ancillary outbuildings including the existing kitchen staff changing area and store room and the partial demolition of the existing school uniform store area to allow access to the main external entrance to the

centre during construction.

The school said students will “benefit from a truly university-like experience” while the new building will further develop the school’s holistic approach which means pupils grow the confidence, positive attitude, and skills that make the difference in later life.

The building is set to be completed and ready for the school’s sixth formers to start their new academic term in September next year.

Headmaster Alan Stevens said the new facility would be an excellent asset for the school.

He said: “This state of the art sixth form centre will provide a home to the excellent sixth form programme that Barnard Castle School offers.

“It is designed to be a stepping stone to university and will secure the Barney sixth form experience as being a truly outstanding preparation not just for further study, but for success in life and work.”