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Martlesham Primary Academy completes £750K makeover

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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.

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Ipswich teen's marathon bid to repay charity that helped him adapt to UK life

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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

Osman Abdullah, 19, will tackle the 26-mile course on 27 April to raise money for the charity that supported him since moving to the UK from Sudan.

Why it matters: The Suffolk New College  student hopes to raise £2,000 for the YMCA, which has helped him adjust to life in the UK after arriving from Sudan two years ago.

Osman in his training kit outside the college
Osman in his training kit outside the collegeSuffolk New College

The details: Osman, who studies English (ESOL) and Maths, has been training regularly on the streets of Ipswich in preparation for the event.

"I've never run a marathon before — but the training is going very well. I run with a friend around Ipswich. I also do yoga. I'm really excited by this. The YMCA will be supporting me during the run and I'm determined to complete the course," he said.

By the numbers: Osman has already raised over £600 towards his target and has been completing half marathons in preparation for the 26-mile run.

Support efforts: Suffolk New College has donated branded training kit and will be buying him trainers to support his fundraising effort.

Craig Shimmon, Head of Marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Hats off to Osman. He is a true inspiration. Supporting him via the donation of training kit is the least we can do."

The college is also staging additional fundraising events, some organised by students.

The bottom line: "I'm so grateful to them and want to raise as much as I can for people who have helped me so much. I really want to give something back to the YMCA, as I lived there and know they need extra help financially," Osman said.

Those wishing to donate to Osman's charity effort can visit his fundraising page on the YMCA England & Wales website.

Suffolk New College

Suffolk New College is a multi-award-winning institution that offers a diverse range of career-focused courses in amazing facilities.

Suffolk New College Ipswich campus
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