WORK is now under way on a long-awaited project to transform Parkstone’s Heatherlands First School into a primary for 630 pupils.

Plans to create a three-form entry primary school by September 2013, include all-weather games pitches, double studios, a food/science room, and nine new classrooms. Sally Burns, head teacher for more than seven years, said it was a very exciting time.

“It has long been the wish of parents, governors and staff to have a primary school on this site,” she said. “The proposal is due to the rising number of children in the area along with the changing of the age of transfer.”

The school was founded in 1892 and was known as Martin Road School before it moved to its current site in 1964.

“Our motto is ‘Enjoying Learning Together’,” Mrs Burns added. “We have some great children and very enthusiastic hard working staff who do their very best to make sure children enjoy their learning.”

Although the school is in the middle of a large residential area, it is on a good-sized plot which includes gardens, nature trails and a pond.

“Our vision is that the pupils and the community will be proud of Heatherlands Primary School,” Mrs Burns added. “Our pupils will have high aspirations, enjoy learning and work with resilience to achieve high standards to prepare them for the opportunities and challenges of the future.”