PRESS RELEASE – AFTER COVID WEST KENT RURAL SCHOOL CAN FINALLY OPEN ITS NEW EXTENSION TO THE COMMUNITY

£3.2 million extension for Harrietsham C of E Primary School finally opens its doors to the community.

Faversham and Mid Kent MP, Helen Whately, and The Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover, were guests of honour to welcome the community to tour the new £3.2m facilities. The school, which is located near the Pilgrim’s Way on the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is linked to the Grade 1 listed Saxon Church, St John the Baptist, now boasts a new library, modern classrooms, a new entrance and additional activity rooms as well as a large outdoor play area, outdoor classrooms and an outdoor gym.

Building work finished at the start of the academic year but, due to Covid, access to visitors was restricted. Harrietsham C of E Primary School started its journey to a two-form entry in 2018 and now features 14 classrooms; over the next two years this will increase the potential roll to 420 pupils .

Helen Whately MP said, “I was delighted to visit this lovely school again after being here previously in 2018 to celebrate the school’s achievements in dealing with mental health. The new outdoor space is the perfect environment to continue to nurture and inspire all children to be the best they can be.”

The Bishop of Dover blessed the new building and congratulated the Shining Lights Worship Team who lead the Worship with a drama of the Lost Son along with Headteacher, Mrs Alison Waller-Davies. The Bishop also commented upon the children’s enthusiasm, excellent behaviour, strong communication skills and the positive, nurturing ethos evident throughout the school.