Fresh start for September as children begin new year at Toner Avenue Primary School

Councillor Moira Smith at the new Toner Avenue Primary School in Hebburn with headteacher Michael Arthur, deputy headteacher Claire Hutchinson, and reception class pupils Max, Izabell, Tommy and Ella-Rose. | Other 3rd Party

Children are starting the academic year on a high with lessons in a brand new school.

Pupils, aged between three and 11, from Hebburn are now learning their lessons in the new £8.7million Toner Avenue Primary School.

Councillor Moira Smith, Lead Member for Children Young People and Families, said: “Giving all our young people the best start in life is a core priority for the council and I am delighted that this project has been delivered on time to enable pupils to start their new academic year in this fantastic learning environment.”

The state-of-the-art building features a two-storey teaching block, a double height hall which can also be used for community use, playing fields, hard play areas, a Multi-Use Games Area and a secure Early Years garden.

Kier Regional Building North East led on the construction of the school which has been built to the rear of the old school.

Phil McDowell, Kier Regional Building North East, Operations Director, added: “We strive to create environments that offer an enriching and supportive space for pupils to learn and we are pleased that they are settling in well at the start of the new term.”

The £8.7million funding for the new school is being met by the Education and Skills Funding Agency and South Tyneside Council.

The school will cater for 630 pupils, with three classes in each year as well as a nursery with 26 places.

The move to incorporate an additional class in each year reflects the expected increase in pupil numbers as a result of new housing developments in Hebburn.

Michael Arthur, the school’s headteacher, said: “It was wonderful to see the reactions from the children when they first entered the building, it really did make everything worthwhile.

“The excitement over the library was a particular highlight.

“It has been a monumental effort from all of the staff to get the school ready for the children and everyone worked tirelessly to get unpacked and the rooms ready.

“The team from Kier have delivered an amazing building and now we are filling it with our amazing children!"