Views show Q3 site taking shape
This dramatic aerial photograph show just how much work has been completed at the new £30million Q3 Academy in Great Barr.
It is six months since construction started on the new academy building being built on part of the former Dartmouth High School site in Wilderness Lane.
It re-opened its doors as the Q3 Academy on September 1 last year. Work is on course to be completed on schedule, with pupils and teachers currently struggling in crumbling buildings and portable cabins next to the work set to move in after Easter 2010.
The new building will include state-of-the-art facilities and features include a showpiece glass domed ceiling and a 300-seat theatre.
The planned transformation caps a remarkable turnaround for the school which was badly hit by a blaze in November 2003 that caused millions of pounds worth of damage and destroyed the science facilities. Caroline Badyal, principal at the academy being sponsored by Eric and Grace Payne, said: "As the pictures show the new building is really starting to take shape.
"We have been able to go across and stand inside to get a feel of what things will eventually be like.
"The school is due to take over the building in January next year.
"It will then be fitted out with a view to students moving in after Easter."
Mrs Badyal added: "The current conditions are not ideal and everyone is looking forward to moving into the brand new building.
"After the new school has been completed the old school will be cordoned off and demolished, after which the area will be landscaped."
Revolutionary changes introduced at Q3 already include banishing uniforms in favour of business suits and abandoning year groups, instead splitting pupils into mixed age 'companies'.
It has also seen year groups reduced from 220 to 180, with a total population of 1,150.
Youngsters are also taking part in five activities a week in sessions called 'kick start' held before and after the school day, taking in a range of topics including gardening, sports and board games.
