A new school in Douglas represents a huge step forward for education in the Island.

That was the comment of Tim Crookall MLC, Minister for Education and Children, as he toured the site of the Henry Bloom Noble Primary School in Westmoreland Road today.

The ?9.5 million school, being built by Tooms, opens in September 2016.

The school’s pupils and staff will move from separate outdated and cramped buildings in Tynwald Street and Demesne Road.

‘Despite an extremely wet and windy winter, the new school has really taken shape and we can already see how impressive it is going to be, with four months to go to opening,’ said the Minister.

‘I am really pleased with how spacious and light the classrooms and activity areas are. They will provide a wonderful teaching and learning environment.

‘The new school also offers excellent sporting facilities for the school and the community. The sprung wooden flooring is now down in the two-court sports hall, and the artificial grass is already laid to the all-weather pitch area at the rear of the school. These two areas will be a tremendous asset within the neighbourhood.

‘One of this Government’s priorities, as it seeks to secure continued economic growth, is to ensure we are better educated, more skilled and more successful.

‘The environment in which children learn is bound to have an impact on their education. This school offers the very latest in facilities and layout.

‘Our investment in young people means this will be a great place to learn.’