Planning permission granted for new, state-of-the-art school building
Outwood Academy Kirkby has announced that Ashfield District Council has granted full planning permission for the construction of a brand-new school building. The decision gives the official green light for a major development that will see the replacement of the existing 1970s-era structures with a state-of-the-art educational facility.
The project is being fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE) as part of its School Rebuilding Programme (SRP), which targets schools most in need of comprehensive modernisation due to the poor overall condition of their existing estate.
The formal planning application, submitted in September 2024 by the DfE’s contractor, Willmott Dixon Construction, outlines the academy's vision to transform the learning environment for its students and staff.
The new building will consolidate the current facilities into a modern, energy-efficient structure, providing significant enhancements to the learning experience. New facilities will include:
Modern, purpose-built classrooms for specialist subjects such as science, drama, and technology
Enhanced external sports provision, including a new all-weather pitch and multi-use games courts
Expansive social space for student recreation
Andy Scruby, lead principal at Outwood Academy Kirkby, welcomed the decision, stating:
“Securing planning permission is a key milestone in our work. In just three years, we've achieved external validation as a 'Good' school and been recognised in the top 1% nationally for school transformation. Now, we can deliver the state-of-the-art facilities our students and community deserve.”
Construction is scheduled to be managed by Willmott Dixon Construction, a national contractor with a strong track record of delivering major DfE projects.
The new facility is scheduled for completion in time for the 2028/29 academic year.
To ensure continuous education throughout the construction period, a phased approach will be implemented. A temporary teaching block will be installed on the existing site and will operate alongside the retained lower school and existing sports facilities until the new main building is ready. Once the new school is occupied, the old buildings will be safely demolished, and the external sports areas will be completed.
A Department for Education spokesperson said:
“Every child deserves a safe, high-quality classroom where they can focus on learning, which is why we are thrilled that planning permission has been granted for Outwood Academy Kirkby.
“Work will soon begin on building new classrooms and a sports pitch that students can not only feel proud of, but that meets the needs of all students now and in the future.
“Through our Plan for Change, this government is investing in national renewal, with almost £20 billion for the School Rebuilding Programme through to 2034-35 - rebuilding over 500 schools across England with 250 additional schools to be selected in the next two years.”
Nick Heath, director of delivery at Willmott Dixon, added:
“With strong roots in Nottinghamshire, we’re delighted to be the selected partner for Outwood Academy Kirkby. The new facility will provide an enhanced offering to the local community, including dedicated sixth-form spaces and the transformation of the current on-site sporting facilities.
“As part of the project, we will also be engaging with local schools and colleges to provide careers advice and work experience opportunities. Social value is at the heart of what Willmott Dixon does, and we hope to leave a positive legacy by helping pupils prepare for their future. We have already started working with Outwood Academy Kirkby pupils, delivering mock interviews to help hone their skills for future opportunities.”
Outwood Academy Kirkby joined the Outwood Family of Schools in September 2022, and serves students in Kirkby-in-Ashfield and the surrounding areas. The school is committed to delivering a high-quality education and transforming the lives of its students. It was graded as ‘Good’ for quality of education, leadership and management, and personal development by Ofsted in May 2025; its first inspection since joining the Outwood Family.
