Kier has started construction of a new purpose-built satellite provision of Amwell View School in Buntingford, Hertfordshire, creating 100 specialist education places for pupils aged 11 to 19.

The 3,263sqm single-storey school is being developed for Hertfordshire County Council on a 1.34-hectare greenfield site.

Kier was appointed through the Major Works framework managed by Pagabo. The new facility will operate as an extension of Amwell View School in Stanstead Abbotts and will provide specialist provision for pupils with severe learning difficulties, including some with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

Single-storey school designed for specialist education

The school has been designed around accessibility and ease of movement, with a single-storey teaching block providing dedicated learning spaces for pupils with complex needs.

The facility will include specialist teaching areas and outdoor learning spaces, with the design intended to support pupils’ wellbeing, independence and accessibility.

Once complete, the school is expected to employ around 65 full-time staff.

The development will also include a new car park with 63 spaces, including 15 electric vehicle charging points.

New Buntingford school to provide 100 specialist places

The project is being delivered in response to increasing demand for specialist education places across Hertfordshire.

The start of construction was marked by a groundbreaking event attended by representatives from Hertfordshire County Council, Amwell View School, Odyssey Projects Limited and Kier.

 Chris Lilley, managing director for Kier Construction Eastern & Midlands, said: “We are proud to be working with Hertfordshire County Council to deliver this much-needed specialist provision for Buntingford and the wider county.

“The new Amwell View satellite provision will provide high-quality, accessible learning spaces that support pupils with complex needs, while creating an environment where students and staff can thrive.

“Our team brings extensive experience in delivering education projects and inclusive learning environments, and we look forward to working collaboratively with the council, the school and local stakeholders to deliver this important addition to Hertfordshire’s specialist education provision.”

Pagabo framework used to procure Kier

 David Llewellyn, Construction and Infrastructure Director at Pagabo, said: “The appointment of Kier through the Major Works Framework marks an important step in delivering much-needed specialist education provision for Hertfordshire.

“This project demonstrates the value of collaborative procurement in bringing forward high-quality, inclusive facilities that meet the needs of local communities.

“We are delighted to support Hertfordshire County Council in creating a purpose-built learning environment that will help pupils with learning difficulties access the specialist education, support and opportunities they deserve closer to home.”

The new Buntingford facility will expand Amwell View School’s specialist education provision across Hertfordshire.