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Major works at Jesse Gray Primary School in West Bridgford have resulted in improved ventilation, air quality and security.

The school is one of 23 across the county to receive £9.5m funding from Nottinghamshire County Council’s School Building Improvement Programme, which will see school infrastructure improvements carried out over the next two years.

The works at Jesse Gray included replacement doors and windows, double glazing, improved ventilation and air quality flow and improved security.

Flyscreens were also fitted to new windows and doors in the school kitchen to allow the hot kitchen environment to have much welcomed fresh cool air.

The work was designed and delivered by Arc Partnership, a joint venture between the council and SCAPE.

Headteacher at Jesse Gray, Chris Belton said that staff and pupils were delighted with the improvements and were already enjoying the benefits.

Mr Belton said: “Since the work was completed, the noise reduction in the classrooms has been particularly noticeable and we’ve noticed the rooms are warmer, so it’s been beneficial over the winter months.”

He added that it was the first-time the heating had been replaced since the 1960s, resulting in improved energy efficiency and reduced energy bills.”

Councillor Tracey Taylor, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said that the programme to improved school buildings was aimed at creating learning environments for pupils that were modern and fit for purpose.

She said: “As a Council, we are delighted that schools across the county will benefit from the programme and I’ve seen schools transformed in recent months, and even though the improvements at Jesse Gray were fixtures and fittings like windows, doors and heating systems, they have made a huge difference to everyday life here.

“I’ve been to schools across the county that have benefited from the programme and the feedback has been overwhelming positive from staff, pupils and parents.”

Councillor Jonathan Wheeler, Deputy Cabinet Member for Personnel, added: “I was delighted to see for myself the improvements at Jesse Gray and on the school tour I saw a lot of happy, smiling faces.

“Investing in our schools is a policy we’re committed to and one that we acknowledge brings benefits for the whole community down the line.”

Dan Maher, Managing Director at Arc Partnership, said: “Inspiring and supporting children by providing excellent learning environments continues to be our main priority.

“We are proud to be working closely with the council to deliver its ambitious programme and ensure real value is provided on each of the projects."

ENDS