West Berkshire Council is delighted to announce the official opening of the new early years building at Thatcham Park C of E Primary School, marking an important milestone in expanding high-quality childcare and education provision for local families.

The £850,000 project, funded through the council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the government’s Basic Need Fund, has transformed an unused building on the school site into a bright, modern and welcoming space for the school’s youngest learners.

The project combines investment in education with a strong commitment to sustainability. By repurposing an existing building rather than constructing a new one, the scheme has reduced waste and minimised environmental impact while creating a modern learning environment designed to support children in their earliest years.

The refurbishment has also achieved net zero carbon in operation, with an outstanding EPC rating of A+ (-9). This exceptional result places the building among the highest-performing for energy efficiency and sustainability. The project incorporates energy-efficient systems, enhanced insulation and other sustainable design features that will help minimise carbon emissions and reduce long-term running costs.

Councillor Heather Codling, West Berkshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children and Family Services, said: “It is absolutely wonderful to see this fantastic new facility officially open at Thatcham Park. Early years education is so important in giving children the very best possible start in life, and this investment shows our wholehearted commitment to ensuring young children can learn, play and grow in high-quality environments close to home.

“The building is a beautiful, bright and inspiring space that has transformed an underused part of the school into a vibrant setting where children can truly flourish. We are delighted to have worked with the school to deliver a project that will support children, families and the wider community for many years to come.”

Alison Webster, Headteacher of Thatcham Park C of E Primary School, said: “This new Early Years setting at Thatcham Park is an investment in our children. As a Church school, we believe every child is uniquely valued and deserves the very best start in life. This beautiful new setting will ensure that our youngest learners can begin their educational journey in a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where they are known, loved and encouraged to thrive.

“We are immensely grateful for the contributions that so many have made over the past 10 years, bringing our aspiration to reality, a legacy that will live on for many years to come.”

Increasing nursery capacity from 32 to 45 children, the new facility provides two dedicated Early Years classrooms and supporting spaces, creating more opportunities for families to access high-quality provision for two-year-olds and nursery-age children.

The officially opened building will provide a nurturing, stimulating environment where children can learn, play and thrive, helping to ensure they have the best possible start to their education journey.