A PRIMARY school has been given the go-ahead to move into larger premises over the summer holiday period.

Bishop Thornton Church of England Primary School, in between Ripon and Harrogate, was recently given official approval from North Yorkshire County Council to move into a former school, two-miles outside of Bishop Thornton village.

The move was encouraged after school bosses found the current school had “outgrown” its purpose, and a need for a larger premises with “better equipment” was established.

The school, which currently has 28 children, will officially transfer to premises owned by the Admiral Long Foundation at Burnt Yates in time for the new academic year on September 3.

The Northern Echo:

The new site was home to a former school which closed last year

Liz Bedford, Bishop Thornton school headteacher, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the school and its children and families.

“Our new home will provide much more space for children and teachers, with generous indoor facilities including a large school hall with modern PE equipment.

“Outdoors there are gardens, extensive woodland and wildlife areas and a big sports field with play equipment.”

The school is currently one mile from the village, however a consultation launched by the school’s governing body said the move had been overwhelmingly supported, despite new premises being further away.

The school will move into the former Burnt Yates Church of England Primary School which closed in July, last year. 

Caroline Smith, chair of governors, said: “Bishop Thornton School has thrived for many years in its original building and has a reputation that we are very proud of.

“However, it has been challenging to consider expansion of the present site, and so, like a family that has outgrown its home, we are beyond delighted to be able to move, within our catchment area, to larger premises with extensive outdoor facilities.”

School bosses said the new site was already receiving applications for its reception intake.

Following the move, the school will be known as the Admiral Long Church of England Primary School, while it will include childcare from 7.30am to 6pm.