Complete construction partner Stepnell has marked the completion of the new Thoresby Vale Primary Academy in Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by partners, project stakeholders and local representatives.
Set in the heart of Sherwood Forest, the sustainable school, designed by Lungfish Architects, provides a forest-style, nature-inspired environment to support the learning and development of pupils aged 5 to 11.
Constructed using energy-efficient materials and methods, the building aims to reflect both its environmental setting and the educational ethos of the Diverse Academies Trust. Stepnell Group’s energy management business Step Energy installed photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps while its joinery business Lawford Bespoke Joinery created various interior elements including teaching walls, IPS cubicles and a food tech workstation.
Opening its doors to pupils for the first time in September, the school forms part of the wider Thoresby Vale development led by Harworth Group plc that includes a 350-acre country park, 800 new homes, and commercial space.
Tom Sewell, Director at Stepnell, said: “Delivering Thoresby Vale Primary Academy has been a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a wider development that combines education, sustainability and community growth within a new community in Edwinstowe.
“From day one, we were committed to delivering a high-quality, energy-efficient building that brings Diverse Academies Trust’s vision of a natural learning environment to life. Through maintaining close collaboration on project requirements, we have created an inspiring new primary academy that will support community development and nurture the next generation of learners.”
Representatives from Nottinghamshire County Council, Harworth Group, Diverse Academies Trust and other partners joined Stepnell on site to celebrate the project’s completion and tour the new facilities.
David Cotton, Chief Executive Officer at Diverse Academies Trust, commented: “I am incredibly proud to gather with our partners to mark this special occasion. This magnificent new school is the result of a true partnership — built on the dedication, collaboration, and shared vision of so many. I want to sincerely thank all our partners who worked tirelessly to make this possible. Thoresby Vale Primary Academy is a testament to partnership and community — a place where children can learn and grow, and where futures can thrive.”
To support learning, Nottinghamshire County Council invested £240,000 in essential equipment for the new academy.
Councillor James Walker-Gurley, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management said: “Investing in our future generations is vital, so it’s fantastic that new furniture and IT equipment will now benefit pupils at this wonderful new school.”
Councillor Rory Green, cabinet member for children and families, described the children as ‘superstars’ after giving councillors a full tour the new school. He said: “Thoresby Vale has to be one of the best new builds of recent times. A stunning environment integrated into the green space surroundings. It’s a magnificent addition for much needed school placements.”
Andrew Blackshaw, Chief Operating Officer at Harworth Group plc, who took part in the ribbon cutting, commented: “The opening of Thoresby Vale Primary Academy is a milestone moment at our innovative multi-million-pound regeneration-based development, Thoresby Vale.
“At Harworth, we believe that creating sustainable, successful places goes beyond building homes — it’s about delivering the green and social infrastructure that helps communities flourish. And, this new school will provide a fantastic environment for children to learn and grow, while supporting families to build strong connections with each other and the natural surroundings.
“We’re delighted to have worked with a range of partners to deliver the school and show the power of collaboration between local and national partners to deliver much-needed new infrastructure and amenities, which will support the community for generations to come.”
Header image: Representatives from Nottinghamshire County Council, Harworth Group, Diverse Academies Trust and other partners joined Stepnell to mark the completion
