Director Jon James -

“it is an inspirational education facility that that will enhance the community in the surrounding Tadpole farm masterplan”

The start of construction work has now commenced for the £21 million Great Western Academy (GWA) in North Swindon.

The design, developed by award-winning international design practice Scott Brownrigg includes modern, state-of-the-art facilities to better accommodate contemporary educational requirements. Departments for science, math, design, technology and creative arts (music, drama and dance) will also be provided for.

The project is now on site and was marked recently by a ‘ground-breaking’ ceremony at the Great Western Academy site and attended by Graham Taylor, Principal of New College, and North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson. The school is to be built on the fringe of the award winning Tadpole Green Garden Village development and embraces views towards the Cotswolds and to the south facing courtyard. 

Swindon Borough Council is fully supportive of the scheme having identified the need for more primary places in Swindon following a rapid population growth and new housing developments. The 9,350 sq m building accommodates 1,210 pupils includes a 460 place sixth form. 

Scott Brownrigg has used a crisp modern architectural palate to promote ideas of openness and transparency that are central to the school’s educational philosophy. 

Director of Scott Brownrigg’s Cardiff office who is heading the project, Jon James said of the commencement of work: “We are delighted that this exciting project has started onsite, it is an inspirational education facility that that will enhance the community in the surrounding Tadpole farm masterplan. Working closely with Swindon New college, the Education Funding Agency and BAM has been a fantastic experience, we are looking forward to the building progressing at pace.”

The work will be carried out by BAM Construction and will be completed July 2018 in time for the start of the academic year, September 2018.