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Hatherop Primary to celebrate completion of first phases of “Big Build” with official opening ceremony


PRESS RELEASE


Hatherop, Gloucestershire – Hatherop Primary School will officially open the first two completed phases of its ambitious “Big Build” project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2.45pm on Friday 10 October. The honours will be performed by broadcaster Anne Robinson, best known as the host of The Weakest Link.

The event marks a major milestone in the school’s multi-phase redevelopment programme, which has so far raised over £300,000 thanks to the incredible generosity and creativity of supporters. Highlights have ranged from the pupil-led ‘Grow-a-Fiver’ initiative to a 24-hour solo cycle, a round-the-clock rowathon, a school-wide readathon and countless other weird and wonderful ideas — including a one-off live performance of The Weakest Link at The Barn Theatre in Cirencester, starring none other than Anne Robinson herself.

Phases 1 and 2, which were completed on time and on budget, delivered:

  • A major extension to the previously undersized Year 4 classroom

  • Relocation of the school office from the first floor to a new ground-floor entrance lobby

The improvements are already transforming day-to-day life at the school, giving pupils more space to learn and providing a much more welcoming entry point for visitors.

Headteacher Taryn Hancock said: “We are delighted with the impact of our recent building works. The extended classroom is already giving pupils greater opportunities for learning in a bright, modern environment, and our new ground floor office has created an entrance that is both secure and welcoming for our whole school community. We are very grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”

Chair of Governors, Michael St Aldwyn, added: “This project shows what can be achieved when a village comes together. From volunteers to builders to donors — it has been a true team effort, and this is just the beginning.”

Guest of Honour, Anne Robinson, commented: “I can hardly believe the speed at which the new buildings have risen. It's changed the lives of so many of the pupils at Hatherop Primary.”

Following the ribbon-cutting, a reception will be held for parents, supporters and invited guests in the newly opened classroom.

With Phases 1 and 2 complete, attention now turns to Phase 3 — replacing the ageing Year 5 & 6 classroom with a brand-new school hall in Summer 2026.

Media are warmly invited to attend. Interview opportunities will be available on the day.

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Notes to Editors

Hatherop C of E Primary School is undertaking a major three-phase redevelopment programme to modernise and future-proof its facilities.

  • Phase 1 (Completed, Autumn 2024): Relocation of the school office to a secure, dedicated ground-floor lobby with improved access.

  • Phase 2 (Completed, Autumn 2024): Significant extension of the previously undersized Year 4 classroom.

  • Phase 3 (Planned for Summer 2026): Demolition of the ageing Elliot Building (currently housing Year 5 & 6) and construction of a brand-new school hall with enhanced storage and toilets. The existing hall will be repurposed into the new Year 5/6 classroom, complete with a small library. The new hall will also be made available for wider community use outside school hours.

How to support the campaign

The Big Build continues to welcome support from individuals, local businesses and community groups — whether through donations, sponsorship, event participation or voluntary help.

More Information

For media enquiries, please contact:e: hughbowring@outlook.com  m: 07768 275731

 
 
 

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