Students at Matravers School have benefited from an array of new facilities at their new sixth form centre, including updated IT equipment and private study areas.


The purpose-built centre means sixth formers will no longer have to use the oldest part of the Westbury school to study. The building can also be used for meetings by community groups.
 

It includes a common room with kitchen, offices and meeting rooms, and the construction has coincided with a refurbishment of the whole school over the holidays.


Sixth formers Lauren Balchin and Katie Vaughan, both 17 and from Westbury, said the new centre was a welcome change.


“It brings both the upper and lower sixth together so it is better socially and means we have more of a community, and we can help the lower sixth with their work,” said Lauren. “It is a much nicer and more homely environment,” added Katie.

“It is relaxing which makes it easier to work.”
Matravers’ new interim headteacher Beverley Martin said: “We are delighted with the new centre, the old area they had was just not fit.


“The new IT facilities will allow them to bring in their own equipment so learning can continue at home and not just be something they do sat in the classroom.


“It is a more mature approach to learning which will prepare them for university.”


Matravers’ sixth form has grown by 100 students since it started with 40 in 2000. The new centre was paid for by Wiltshire Council after it was assessed as a priority.


l The school will be holding an open day on Wednesday for current and prospective parents to meet Mrs Martin and see the new centre. Sessions run from 9am to 1pm and 7 to 8.30pm.