WORK has started on a new multi-million pound school in Bicester.

Bicester Technology Studio, which is being built off Queens Avenue adjacent to The Bicester School, will offer a curriculum focusing on sustainable technology and construction alongside the normal subjects.

The school’s principal designate, Richard Brown, joined partners from lead sponsor Activate Learning and contractors ISG, to cut the first turf on October 14.

He said: “It is incredibly exciting to be here on site and to see work starting on our new school.

“As work gets under way we are also beginning to meet with pupils who are interested in joining us next September. We have already held two successful taster events and have been delighted with the enthusiastic response to our vision for the school.”

The school should open by September 2016, taking on 40 year 10 students and 70 year 12 students, following final approval earlier this month.

Bicester Technology Studio will eventually cater for up to 310 students in years 10 to 13.

It is hoped that as Bicester’s population grows along with a number of developments, children can learn the technology and building methods that will encompass many of the upcoming projects across the town.

These include the 6,000-home eco-town being built north west of the town and 1,900 self-build homes at Graven Hill to the south.

Pupils will be able to work in projects set by industry leaders to mirror those practices found in the real world and industry partners will also be invited into the school to provide mentoring and work experience.

These companies include, eco-town lead developers A2Dominion, Brita, Chiltern Railways, RED Engineering, Zeta Specialist Lighting, Bioregional and Wilmott Dixon.

Dr Sarah James, national framework director for EFA projects at main contractor for the build ISG, said: “This is our first project to get on site under the Education Funding Agency’s new regional framework.

“It’s exciting because of the school’s specialism in sustainable technologies.

“We will work with the students to support their understanding of the construction methods.”