Students at Bohunt Wokingham Sixth (BW6) are beginning the new school year in their brand-new sixth form building, marking an exciting new chapter for the school.
Construction of BW6 is jointly funded by Wokingham Borough Council and the Bohunt Education Trust, with 300 additional places being created by the project. The project improves educational opportunities in the rural south of Wokingham Borough, which currently lacks a sixth form.
This year marks ten years since Bohunt Wokingham first opened its doors. The new sixth form means students can now continue their education at Bohunt School instead of going elsewhere or travelling outside the borough. They now have the opportunity to sit A Levels and other further qualifications closer to home, in the new specialist facilities with teachers and support systems they know.
The project reached a significant milestone last month (August) when Francis Construction completed building works. Last week, the new sixth form building was officially handed over to the council and Bohunt Education Trust, ahead of students starting at BW6 for the new academic year.
Executive member for children’s services, and deputy leader of the council, Cllr Prue Bray said: “It is very exciting that BW6 is open for the start of term. BW6 is a much-needed facility which will enable more young people to access high-quality, post-16 education locally. I hope the students are enjoying their new learning environment where they are given opportunities to thrive and achieve their ambitions.”
Bohunt Wokingham Headteacher, Jennifer Comber said: “I am thrilled to welcome our students into our exceptional new sixth form building at the start of the academic year.
“BW6 gives our young people a dedicated, inspiring environment in which to learn, develop their independence and achieve their ambitions. We are incredibly proud of what has been created here and excited about the opportunities it will provide for our students and the wider community for many years to come.”
Neil Strowger, Trust Leader at Bohunt Education Trust, said: “The opening of this new building marks an important milestone for BW6 and for the young people and families of Wokingham.
“At Bohunt Education Trust, we believe every young person should have access to high-quality education and the opportunity to achieve their ambitions, wherever they live.
“Our investment in BW6 reflects that commitment, creating an excellent environment for students to learn, grow and prepare for their next steps. We are proud to have worked in partnership with Wokingham Borough Council to make this project a reality and excited to see the difference BW6 will make for the community.”
Francis Construction has been on-site since last summer when groundbreaking works commenced. Students have been getting regular glimpses behind the scenes of the new sixth form building. Earlier this year, the project celebrated a topping out milestone.
An official opening of the new sixth form is due to take place in the following months.
