Sixth formers to get space of their own as boarding school revamp continues

Old Swinford Hospital School, in Stourbridge, is showcasing plans which officials say will give sixth formers their own dedication space on site.

The landmark school, off Heath Lane, Oldswinford, says the proposals are a major step in boosting facilities offered to its older students.

Building work is getting under way on the scheme to revamp the school's oldest boarding house call Foster.

Artist impressions have been released showcasing how the building on school grounds will be modernised.

It will be revamped to create single and twin occupancy rooms with en-suite shower rooms for 60 pupils in years 11 to 13.

A courtyard inside will be covered with a lightweight glass structure to create a central common room.

Plans are in the pipeline to create routes linking through the building connecting to a new study area, library and kitchen.

Officials say the refurbishment and conversion will give the house a 'modern and open look on the inside, whilst retaining its historic exterior facade'.

A large communal area downstairs is planned to allow students to have their own space rather than sharing with younger pupils.

School staff say they believe this will help older students learn 'greater responsibility and independence'.

Architects from by Warwick-based Robothams are leading the design team for the refurbishment programme.

Work on the revamp is expected to be completed by September after construction work started in recent days.

Officials have yet to reveal the cost of the work but say that it is a significant investment.

Building contractors Stepnell Ltd will be undertaking the work on the boarding house.

The project marks the latest stage of a gradual modernisation of facilities at Old Swinford Hospital School.

The past met the future at a Stourbridge boarding school as dignitaries attended the grand opening of a multi-million pound development.

A £345,000 food technology block was created as lessons became part of the school curriculum around five years ago.

Six years ago a £10.5 million upgrade of facilities saw three new teaching and residential buildings opened at the site.

They were named in honour of influential individuals in the school's history.

The Edmonds Sports Centre, boasting a new fitness suite, classroom, and all-weather pitches, has been named after Alderman Jack Edmonds who has been a school governor for 37 years.

Former headmaster Christopher Potter unveiled the Potter boarding house, now the largest boarding house in the school, providing accommodation for 85 students.

Old Swinford's founder Thomas Foley, an ironmaster from the Great Witley Estate in Worcestershire, is also remembered in the naming of a new multi-use arts performance area.

The Foleyan Centre has room for an audience of around 200 people.

His descendant, Lt Gen Sir John Foley, unveiled a plaque dedicated in Thomas's memory in front of invited guests.

Founded in 1667, Old Swinford Hospital is a state- maintained boarding school, one of just 34 in the country