The new £10 million Brambles Primary Academy at Clare Hill opened on time for the start of the September term.

Funded by Kirklees Council, the new school building has classrooms, a dining area and curriculum support spaces. There are also expanded kitchen facilities and improved play areas.

Despite Covid-19 restrictions causing some delays, the building was completed in time for the new school year.

The plans weren’t without controversy, however, as plots at Cemetery Road Allotments in Birkby were lost to provide a car park and playing fields for the new school, sparking a legal battle.

Established in September 2018, the school has three year groups which have been in temporary modular buildings prior to the new building being finished.

The new building offers the school’s children and staff top quality facilities in a pleasant and modern learning environment. The additional space also allows the school to offer more places for children of local families as it continues to expand over the coming years, up to a maximum capacity of 420 pupils.

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Clr Carole Pattison, Cabinet member for learning, aspiration and communities, said: “This investment at Brambles Primary Academy demonstrates our shared goal for each and every child to be happy, healthy and to enjoy the best start in life.

“The new, modern facilities and additional space the new building provides will enrich the learning and developmental environment for our children for years to come.

“It is fantastic to see the school open and we wish all the children, their families, and the staff at Brambles the best start to school life in their new building.”

Sallie Dodd, principal of Brambles Primary Academy, added: “The whole community, parents, children and staff at Brambles Primary Academy are incredibly excited to have the new building finished and open.

“Throughout the build, the children have visited the site daily, they have been fascinated and thrilled to see their new school grow, the children’s interest in the construction is inspiring.

“We are all raring to go and excited to start the new school year in our brand new environment.”

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Roz Batley, operations director for South Pennine Academies, said: “South Pennine Academies are delighted to have worked in partnership with Brambles Primary Academy and Kirklees.

“The academy’s vision to provide high quality education, with the children at the heart of every decision made, fully aligns with the Trust’s vision and values.

“The fantastic new facilities will fully support the rich and stimulating curriculum and give every child the opportunity to learn and to flourish.”