THURROCK's newest school opened its doors for the first time today in its permanent home.

Orsett Heath Academy, part of the South West Essex Community Education Trust (SWECET), has officially moved into its new school building following a four-year wait.

The new academy opened to students in 2020 in a purpose-built temporary building, however, after years of planning and building works, the new home for Orsett Heath Academy opened today (Thursday, 5 September).

The building offers 1,200 much-needed secondary school places for 11-16-year-olds.

It is operated by SWECET, who are also responsible for William Edwards School, Stifford Clays Primary School, Deneholm Primary School and Chadwell St Mary Primary School in Thurrock and Marshalls Park Academy in Havering. 

Contractor McAvoy, a leading UK and Ireland offsite manufacturing specialist for over 50 years, was appointed by the Secretary of State for Education to commission the three-storey school building which covers 8,610 sqm.

The state-of-the-art new school showcases innovative internal design features, including a double-height dining area, a collaborative shared space and a performing arts hub.

Additionally, students and staff will benefit from extensive hard and soft landscaping, parking areas for cars and bicycles, playing fields and the installation of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

The interim building at Thurrock Rugby Club will remain in joint use for educational and sports provision.

Steve Munday, Chief Executive of SWECET, said: "We are thrilled to have finally moved into the official home of Orsett Health Academy.

"The team at McAvoy alongside colleagues at Orsett Heath, SWECET, the DfE and LA have worked tirelessly to ensure the school was ready to open its doors for the first day of the new school year.

"Our main contractor, McAvoy, our architects, Stride Treglown, and all the subcontractors have produced an exceptional school building which will become a wonderful legacy for the families of Thurrock for years to come."

Sian Rawson, Head of School at Orsett Heath Academy, added: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome our students and staff to this incredible new school building.

"The students were ecstatic walking through the front doors for the first time this morning, and the excitement was evident from all.

"This state-of-the-art facility not only reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional education but also offers an inspiring environment where our students can thrive academically, socially, and creatively."

For more information on the school, visit the Orsett Heath Academy website or follow its Facebook page.