Last week the council’s Executive approved funding for a £14.1m project which will see the BEST school move to a new site on Hitchin Road in Shefford.

The oversubscribed school, which currently has one form of entry and a capacity of 120 pupils on its existing site in Rectory Road, Campton, will be able to accommodate 420 pupils and two forms of entry at the new location.

The land for the school’s new home is part of the approved planning application for Hillfoot Fields, a 150-home site currently being developed next to Shefford Sports Club.

Building work could start in spring next year and the new school is expected to be ready in September 2024.

Campton’s relocation will be in advance of transitioning from a lower school to a primary, which is part of the council’s Schools for the Future programme and planned to take place in 2025.

Principal Sarah Fraher said: “As Principal of Campton, I am delighted by the news. Now our new build has received financial approval we can start planning for our future.

“Staff are incredibly excited by all the possibilities having a purpose-built site will bring. We are looking forward to working with BEST, our pupils, families and the wider community to ensure current and future pupils continue to have access to outstanding teaching and pastoral opportunities.”

BEST Chief Executive Officer Dr Alan Lee said: “All at BEST are thrilled that Campton Academy will get the new build they and the community richly deserve. 

“Campton is an Outstanding school, with exceptional teaching and learning and pastoral care. The school benefits from membership of BEST and collaboration with other schools in the trust.

“These are truly exciting times for Campton, BEST and the wider community.”

Cllr Sue Clark, Executive Member for Education, said: “Our New School Places scheme is about creating additional places in areas of demand like the Shefford and Stotfold area, so that children can go to a good local school nearer to where they live.

“The expansion and relocation of Campton Academy will enable the school to meet this demand for places in line with housing growth while offering pupils a greater curriculum depth. And, in 2025, Campton Academy will be ready to become a primary when other schools in the area are also proposed to change from three to two-tier.”

The project is subject to approval from the Department for Education’s Regional Director for the East of England.

Campton Academy and BEST will now submit a business case for consideration, with capital support from CBC, which will progress through to detailed design, planning and construction.