The start of a £8.6 million school expansion development was marked with a sod-cutting ceremony. Schoolchildren gathered to celebrate the start of the work at The Orchards Federation schools , which will include the development of an early years foundation stage unit - to allow nursery and reception classes from all three schools to co-locate.
The federation is made up of Cherry Tree Primary School, Green Fold Special School , and The Orchards Nursery - which are based on two sites, known as Lower and Upper Orchards, both situated on Highfield Road. READ MORE: Approval for £8m expansion of Green Fold Special School As well as the new early years unit, eight additional classrooms across the Upper and Lower sites, along with internal remodelling will also take place. Katie Hague, Executive Head of The Orchards Federation, said: “This is an exciting project which will further enhance our oversubscribed outstanding provision.
"Green Fold continues to be the special school of choice for many families and we are delighted that we will be able to welcome more pupils to flourish with us. "The creation of a purpose built Early Years extension to house our nursery in the same building as Cherry Tree school and our Green Fold PMLD ( profound and multiple learning difficulties) classes will further enhance our inclusive offer and bring more opportunities for collaboration. "Local families will be able to benefit from this beacon of excellence.
” Bolton Council’s executive cabinet .