A NEW state-of-the-art school will open its doors to its first pupils this month.

Woodgate Primary School, in Bellevue Farm Road, Pease Pottage, will accommodate up to 210 children with five modern classrooms, a main hall, library, and a special educational needs room.

The new building, delivered by Thakeham, replaces the previous Warninglid Primary School buildings in Slaugham Lane.

CEO of Thakeham Group Rob Boughton said: “Woodgate Primary School exemplifies our commitment to placemaking at Woodgate.

“We funded and delivered Woodgate Primary School at an early stage of the development because the school will play such a crucial role in the creation of a thriving new community here.

“We are grateful to everyone who played their part in helping us to design a school to make West Sussex proud.”

Among the first to pass through its doors was seven-year-old Cody, who was accompanied by parents Jennifer and Kirk Dufield.

Jennifer said: “Cody is most looking forward to seeing what sports they offer at school. He loves football and outdoor activities and seeing just how big the playing field is at the school has put a massive smile on his face.

“When we moved to Woodgate, Cody didn’t know anyone who would be joining the school but we signed up to the community pages on social media and met other families. He now has a few friends locally that will be joining him at Woodgate Primary.”

The school will also open an early years nursery provision in the new year, with children living in Woodgate and the wider catchment area will be able to attend.

Its development marks the first stage in a series of amenities to be built at Woodgate, with forthcoming facilities to include a community hub and cafe, as well as a village shop and St Catherine’s Hospice centre.

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