A major investment in education in Barrow has reached its final milestone, with the completion of works at the new Channelside Alternative Provision, which opened to students for this academic year.
The £2.9 million facility, designed to accommodate up to 40 pupils, was funded by Westmorland and Furness Council and will be operated by South Cumbria Pupil Referral Service. It will provide high-quality provision for young people who find mainstream education challenging.
Constructed using modern modular methods, the building was manufactured and delivered in sections and installed at the Channelside site last year. Since then, internal works and external landscaping have been completed to create a modern, adaptable and welcoming learning space.
Cllr Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said:
“This is a fantastic moment for Barrow and for families across the area. Everyone deserves access to high-quality education and facilities, and Channelside Alternative Provision will offer a modern, inclusive environment for young people who need a different approach to learning. I am delighted to see it open and ready to welcome children this academic year.”
Lisa Balderstone, Head Teacher at South Cumbria Pupil Referral Service, added:
“Being able to welcome our students into this new setting is incredibly rewarding. This has been an opportunity to design a building with our young people in mind to create the right environment to help them thrive and succeed. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our school community.”
Cllr Andrew Jarvis, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
“This project has shown the real benefits of modern construction. From delivery of the modules to the completion of the finished building, the process has been efficient and forward-looking. It’s fantastic to now see the school open its doors and start making a difference in the lives of young people.”
The Channelside Alternative Provision will work alongside other local education providers to deliver a flexible curriculum tailored to the needs of its pupils, ensuring they can continue to access education and support within their community.