A North East primary school is set to be completely rebuilt as part of a major national investment in education.
St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Ryhope, Sunderland, part of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust (BCCET), is one of 500 school projects across the country to receive funding through the Government's School Rebuilding Programme, led by the Department for Education.
A groundbreaking ceremony has already taken place at the site, marking the beginning of a project that will see the historic school transformed into a modern, purpose-built facility.
Situated beside St Patrick’s Church, the school has long maintained close links with the local parish and has served generations of children and families in and around Sunderland.
Jane Ward, executive headteacher at St Patrick’s, said: "For more than 130 years, St Patrick's Catholic Primary School has been at the heart of the Ryhope community, serving generations of local children and families.
"We are absolutely delighted that construction of our new school has now begun, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in the school's long and proud history.
"This purpose-built facility will provide modern, state-of-the-art teaching and learning spaces, cutting-edge technology, and enhanced outdoor learning environments that will enrich our children's educational experience."
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"This investment will ensure that St Patrick's continues to serve the children and families of Ryhope for generations to come", Jane added.
The new school is expected to open in summer 2027 and will include a nursery, allowing children to begin their education journey from the age of three.
The School Rebuilding Programme, launched in 2021, prioritises schools based on urgent condition needs, potential health and safety risks, or outdated construction types that require full replacement.
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