Expansion underway at Beaconside Primary School in Penrith to create more school places

Work has started on a significant extension at Beaconside Church of England Primary School in Penrith. This project aims to provide additional school places and expand specialist provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The development was approved by Westmorland and Furness Council following public consultation and benefits from funding through Section 106 developer contributions. These contributions are provided by housing developers to ensure enough school spaces are available as local communities grow.

The expansion will eventually create up to 119 places for children in Reception to Key Stage 2 and add 14 new specially resourced provision places for Key Stage 2 pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties and other associated SEND. These new places are intended to provide tailored support, allowing pupils to learn alongside their peers in a mainstream environment.

Enabling works were completed during the 2025 summer holidays to minimise disruption to staff and students. These initial alterations included reconfiguring teaching spaces ahead of the main construction work.

Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: "This project represents a significant investment in our children, young people and local communities. By using a financial contribution from housing developers in this way, we are ensuring there are sufficient school places where they are needed and strengthening much needed provision for children with additional needs. It is a great example of partnership working delivering real benefits for families in Penrith."

Charlotte Trudway, Director of Education for Diocese of Carlisle, said: "As a Church of England school at the heart of its community, Beaconside plays an important role in supporting children to flourish academically, socially and emotionally. This investment will enhance the school’s ability to offer inclusive education and specialist support, reflecting our commitment to serving every child and family."

Nick Page, Executive Headteacher of Beaconside CofE Primary School, said: "We are extremely pleased to see work starting on this exciting project. The expansion will give us the space and facilities we need to meet growing demand while continuing to offer a caring, inclusive environment. The additional resource provision will be particularly valuable in helping children with SEND to thrive as part of our school community."

The extension has been thoughtfully designed to complement the existing school building while improving accessibility and sustainability. New outdoor learning opportunities and biodiversity enhancements are also part of the project.

The development is one of many in Westmorland and Furness Council’s wider capital programme, which aims to strengthen school and community infrastructure to meet the needs of evolving local communities.