Skip to main contentEnter
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Martlesham Primary Academy completes £750K makeover

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

The school has unveiled new classrooms and facilities following a major redevelopment project funded by Suffolk County Council.

Why it matters: The £750K investment transforms key areas of the school, enhancing the learning environment for pupils with modern, inclusive spaces.

Cathie Paine and Emma Churchman cutting the ribbon at the opening of Martlesham Primary
Cathie Paine and Emma Churchman cutting the ribbon at the opening of Martlesham PrimaryREAch2 Academy Trust

The details: The redevelopment includes:

  • A new classroom block featuring a Year 6 classroom

  • New cloakroom and toilet facilities

  • A dedicated SEN classroom

  • Upgraded girls' and boys' toilets

  • Improved drainage systems under the new building

The project was made possible through collaboration between REAch2 Academy Trust, Suffolk County Council, Concertus, and Seamans Building.

What they're saying: "This project marks a huge milestone for Martlesham Primary Academy, ensuring we can provide the very best facilities for our children," said Emma Churchman, Headteacher.

"Martlesham Primary may be a small school, but we are a vibrant place buzzing with positivity and possibility - our new learning spaces are already making a real difference to both the children and staff," she added.

Cathie Paine, CEO of REAch2 Academy Trust, who formally opened the new classroom block, said: "We are thrilled to see this investment come to life. This is a great example of how strong partnerships can deliver real benefits for schools and their communities."

By the numbers: The facilities were officially handed over during October half-term, with contractors managing to complete the work with minimal disruption despite working on an active school site.

The bottom line: The newly refurbished spaces provide a more modern, inclusive, and inspiring environment for pupils, with school leadership reporting positive responses from both children and staff.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

Ipswich's only free and independent news publication

Support our journalism

We can't do this without you! Unlike the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times, Ipswich.co.uk has no banner advertising and no wealthy US corporate owners.

So, if you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for a better Ipswich, please consider contributing just £24 per year.

Every penny matters and allows us to keep producing good quality local journalism that respects your time, attention and privacy.

Become a supporter

Family pays tribute to 'loving' Ipswich man killed in A14 crash

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

"A loving father, brother and grandad" who brought "joy and laughter" is how relatives described John Vincent, who died in a collision near Stowmarket last month.

Why it matters: The 61-year-old from Ipswich was involved in a fatal crash on the A14 last month, with police now appealing for witnesses.

John Vincent
John VincentSuffolk Constabulary

The details: Police were called just after 23:40 on Thursday, 20 February to reports of a collision involving a car and an HGV on the westbound carriageway of the A14 between Stowmarket and Haughley.

Mr Vincent's black Ford C-Max collided with a Volvo Skip Loader vehicle parked in a layby.

Ambulance crews, firefighters and a paramedic from Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS) attended, but Mr Vincent was sadly declared dead at the scene.

What they're saying: In a tribute released through police, Mr Vincent's family said: "To a loving father, brother and grandad who will be sorely missed for all the joy and laughter you brought into everybody's lives.

"You will be missed greatly by all who knew you. Rest in peace you will never be forgotten.

"We love you. RIP John William Vincent."

What's next: Police are asking witnesses to the collision to contact the Joint Norfolk & Suffolk Serious Collision Investigation Unit, quoting reference 37/9754/25.

The bottom line: Support information for those affected by road traffic collisions can be found on the Suffolk Police website.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Load next article