Hethersett Academy

This project delivered a significant expansion at Hethersett Academy, increasing capacity from 230 to 270 pupils per year group. The three-storey extension marked the second phase of development at the school and includes a new dining block, two design technology rooms, two ICT-rich classrooms, and nine general-use classrooms. Designed with sustainability in mind, the new building is net-zero, incorporating technologies such as an air source heat pump and solar panels.

The £2,000,000 contribution from the Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB), alongside central government's Basic Need Grant, enabled the project to move forward. The new facility was delivered by Pentaco Construction in collaboration with Norfolk County Council and based on a design by NPS. Construction began in January 2024 and the new facility opened to students in April 2025.

This project was a key priority for the GNGB, supporting a secondary school located in a key service centre where 1,400 new homes are planned. The expansion helps ensure sufficient school places are available locally, mitigating the impact of housing growth and enabling more children to attend schools within their community. It also supports GNGB's strategic priorities of securing sufficient school places in the Greater Norwich area and building sustainable schools.

The new facilities provide enhanced opportunities for current and future students, offering access to subject-specific spaces that support enriched learning experiences.

Principal of Hethersett Academy said: 

The addition of this building has made our site feel more connected than ever and is going to be of great benefit to our students at Hethersett Academy. Now we have the space we need to deliver the best education possible for all our students. We are so excited to start using our new block in its full capacity. A huge thank you to all that have been involved in the project for realising our vision and delivering fantastic facilities for our students.