25th June 2026
Doors have officially opened on new facilities for pupils and staff at Hanbury First C of E school this week.
As part of extension works at the school, two new larger classrooms have been created to replace two aged mobile classrooms.
The mobile classrooms were deemed essential to support basic need provision at the school but were proving costly to repair and maintain.
Not only are the new classrooms more energy efficient, thanks to solar panels, adjustable lighting, air conditioning, and lots of natural light from windows, but the project has also helped with developing the wider school site.
Worcestershire County Council provided a Capital Maintenance Grant of £699,000 towards the circa £750k scheme, with the school providing the remaining funding.
The funding was used to create a new meeting room, new toilet facilities, and a new storage room.
The new facilities have been seamlessly integrated with the main school building and are now fully in use, providing a dynamic and engaging space for pupils to learn, collaborate, and grow.
Office Manager, Mrs Parmley coordinated the huge project over 2 years, liaising with all those involved, from planning, construction and IT to ensuring the rooms were fully furnished and equipped to welcome their new classes. It seemed fitting that she was the one to cut the ribbon, alongside representatives from Worcestershire County Council.
Councillor Dan Boatright-Greene, Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Education, SEND and Skills said:
“As a teacher myself, I know the real impact that positive learning spaces can have on pupils, both now and in the future. It’s really important that our schools provide students with opportunities to learn, develop and grow, and I’m looking forward to hearing how these facilities help the students do just that.”
Headteacher of Hanbury First C of E School, Aaron McDonagh said:
“The school has seen many changes in its more than 100 year history, and it feels like this investment helps us take another huge step forward. The design of the new extension was a result of lots of research and we feel it reflects our vision perfectly.
“As a rural school, we’re determined to maintain a nurturing environment whilst ensuring we maximise each child’s learning potential. We’re located in a beautiful part of the Worcestershire countryside. This new chapter in our story means we can make the most of our surroundings in a building that’s more than fit for the future.”
