To celebrate the completion of the main structure of the new Ark All Saints Academy in Southwark, Balfour Beatty invited students and teachers to a topping out ceremony to mark this exciting milestone in the construction programme.

The building is part of a £30 million scheme that involves the demolition and construction of two new educational facilities and a parish church on the site of the old St Michael and All Angels and Highshore School.

The new Ark All Saints Academy will comprise of a four storey structure to include new teaching areas, library, lecture theatre and administration facilities. A separate sports pavilion is being constructed adjacent to the main school.


The Academy is the first of the three structures to reach this momentous occasion. Balfour Beatty presented Lucy Frame, Principal Designate with an engraved trowel to mark the occasion.

Lucy said: "It takes a lot of people to build an outstanding academy. I'd like to thank everyone involved so far for their dedication, commitment and passion, which will help us make Ark All Saints an outstanding academy. We are exceptionally fortunate that we will have such a magnificent building and inspiring environment in which to educate our pupils."

Councillor Dora Dixon Fyle, cabinet member for Children's Services, said: "Southwark Council recognises that for schools to give children the best education, they need up-to-date facilities to meet the highest standards. As the new-look Ark All Saints is in my own ward I am particularly excited to welcome this new design which will enhance the area and I look forward to seeing the finished school as it takes its place at the heart of our community."

(CD/H)