Hobson & Porter, Innovation based on tradition

Bryan Pearson with head teacher Ann Hill and pupils of Hallgate Primary School

The new Hallgate Primary School

Its predecessor has stood in the centre of Cottingham for over 100 years - now villagers are hoping the new look Hallgate Primary School will last just as long.

Hallgate Primary School in Cottingham was officially openeded on Friday 16 January 2009 at 11am when the chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Bryan Pearson unveiled a plaque.

The former infant and junior schools have been amalgamated and a new building has been built on the old site at Hallgate.

The new school has been designed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council's own architectural team. Jed Holden, project architect said: "I very much enjoyed the challenge of extending a 1970s-style infants school within a sensitive conservation area and producing a design which belongs to the age in which we live."

Representatives from Hobson & Porter, the Hull firm which built the new school were also in attendance.

Ann Hill, head teacher said: "We are delighted to officially open our wonderful school with its 21st century facilities for all our pupils and we look forward to an exciting and successful future. We would like to thank Councillor Pearson for agreeing to come and unveil our plaque."

Phil Blenkiron, the chair of the school's governors said: "During the three years of planning and building everyone involved stayed focused on the task and delivered a building we can all be proud of. The builders are deserving of a mention for the manner in which they conducted the work and for the continuing support they give to the school. Pupils and staff now have a lovely environment and facilities in which to promote learning for enquiring young minds. The head teacher and all the staff and pupils made the transition from two schools into a single primary school a seamless transfer. Pupils wear their new uniforms with pride. Grateful thanks to all involved but in particular to the unsung heroes who dedicated a tremendous number of voluntary hours in bringing the whole scheme to fruition."