Matford Brook Academy in Exeter, a school built for millions of pounds in 2021, is set to be demolished due to safety concerns. Not a single class has been held in the new building since it opened in 2023.
Pupils in temporary accommodation
Pupils have been learning in temporary accommodation after a report to the Department for Education (DfE) found the building non-compliant with modern safety standards. The building, located in a large housing estate, was left partially constructed after the contractor went bankrupt halfway through the project. Problems were flagged regarding the building's foundations and missing critical structural bolts.
A subsequent review by construction group Kier concluded that the building would need to be dismantled and redesigned to address several safety issues.
DfE confirms demolition
In a letter sent to the school last week, the DfE confirmed the current structure would be razed and replaced with a newly designed building. The letter stated: 'This decision has been taken to provide a clear and dependable route to delivering a high-quality, fully compliant school environment for pupils, staff, and the wider community. Work is already underway to plan the next steps, including appointing a trusted contractor with a strong track record to deliver the rebuild.'
The DfE added: 'We want to reassure you that the DfE remains fully committed to completing the project and providing a high-quality, modern school building. The DfE will continue to work closely with the Ted Wragg Trust and the school to minimise disruption and to ensure that pupils’ education continues as normally as possible. Further detail on the programme, including expected timelines, will be shared once confirmed.'
Headteacher's response
Headteacher Emily Simpson-Horne told parents she understood the decision would 'prompt questions'. She said: 'We are incredibly grateful for the patience and support shown by you and the rest of our school community. A school is about far more than its buildings; it is the people who bring it to life every day. The warmth, ambitious vision and sense of belonging created by our pupils, staff and families are what make Matford Brook Academy such a special place.'
Matford Brook Academy is part of the Ted Wragg Trust and is not overseen by the local county council.
Local councillor raises questions
Councillor Alan Connett, a Liberal Democrat, said he was 'delighted' a solution was found but questioned the original contract tendering. He stated: 'How on earth a brand new, never used, school is being demolished begs many questions about the management and oversight of that contract, in my view.'
