Work begins on technology block at historic school

Wellingborough School in Northamptonshire is undergoing a modernisation

The first phase of a 30-year modernisation project at a 400-year-old private school has begun, with the expansion of its design, technology and science block.

The building at Wellingborough School in Northamptonshire will feature workshops, a lecture theatre for 220 students, seminar rooms and a computer lab. It is due to be finished by the end of the year.

There are future plans for new sports, science and teaching facilities, as well as a new art and theatre venue.

Andrew Holman, the school's headmaster, said: "We are delighted that the first stage of our 30-year plan is coming to life and look forward to the opening of our incredible new Technology Centre.

"The opportunities it will offer to our students through state-of-the-art facilities will hugely enhance our offering in Design Technology, Computing and Food Technology."

The new science and technology block (artist impression) is the first element of a 30-year project at Wellingborough School

The school was founded in 1595 as a Tudor-era grammar school and has developed over the centuries. It accommodates students from nursery through to sixth form.

It has seen a number of famous alumni pass through its corridors, including popstar turned vicar Richard Coles, former Northampton Saints prop Alex Waller and former Northampton North MP, Michael Ellis.