Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to construct the new £27m Cefn Saeson Comprehensive School in Neath.
Neath Port Talbot Council has commissioned the project as part of its strategic school improvement programme (SSIP).
The work is being delivered under the auspices of the Welsh Government’s 21st century schools programme. The scheme was procured through the south west Wales Regional Contractors framework.
The new school will have capacity for 900 pupils, next to the existing one which will be demolished on completion of the new one.
The near 100,000 sq ft school will have 48 classrooms comprising creative workspaces, art facilities and provision for students with additional learning needs.
Sport facilities feature prominently in the new school, with multi-use games area courts, an activity studio and a 3G pitch.
Rob Williams, area director at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We are very pleased to be working with Neath Port Talbot Council on such an important investment in its education offering.
“Providing modern schools fit for 21st century education is a key priority for the local authority, and the designs for Cefn Saeson answer that brief perfectly. The school has a rich sporting heritage and the new facilities will leave it well placed to inspire the next generation of promising athletes.”
Construction on the entire project is expected to be completed by 2022, but with the school scheduled to open for the start of the 2021-22 academic year next September.
Peter Rees, cabinet member for education, skills and culture at Neath Port Talbot Council, said: “Our strategic schools improvement programme is a real statement of our belief in our children and young people, giving them the best start in life and helping them to be the best they can be.
“Despite the budget pressures we face, the investment in this and many other schools in the County Borough demonstrates our commitment to education, making sure the right schools are in the right place, and that they are fit for 21st Century learners.”
This latest contract win is the second major education project the main contractor’s Cardiff office has won in as many months. In September it was appointed to the £29m Whitmore High School project in Barry.
