A POOLE academy is one step closer to being transformed into a 21st century school.

St Aldhelm’s Academy Trust has appointed Kier Construction for its £9.8million renewal and refurbishment programme at the Herbert Avenue site, which could begin this summer.

The project aims to transform the existing school buildings – some of which date from the 1930s – into modern, purpose-build accommodation for its 465 students.

Design proposals are being worked up with architects Jestico + Whiles for a campus which will be able to accommodate up to 900 students with an additional 200-strong sixth form.

There will be a new two-storey school building with specific areas for dance, drama, art and science, a theatre and four “schools” where youngsters will learn in small family communities.

Two of the existing buildings will be renewed to form a hub for work-based learning, such as hair and beauty, construction, car maintenance and forestry skills.

Academy principal Cheryl Heron said: “Kier have undertaken to provide the young people and local community of Rossmore with a building which will create flexible teaching spaces in new and modernised buildings which will provide environments which are conducive to learning.”

There will be new landscaping, entrance plazas, outdoor theatre and gym, central courtyard, a woodland strip and learning gardens. Community facilities will include a café, enterprise shop, hair and beauty services and outdoor areas.

Cycle and car parking, safety, security and accessibility will all be improved under the proposals.

The academy is sponsored by the Diocese of Salisbury and Bournemouth University and received an £11m grant from the Department for Education for a revamp.

Martin Orr, director of Kier Construction, which has a Poole office, said: “Kier has an extensive portfolio of experience in creating state-of-the-art educational facilities and looks forward to making these designs a reality for the young people of Poole.”

A planning application is being prepared and residents’ views sought on the design proposals.

They hope work will begin in July with completion in February 2014.