Beechwood Primary School

Southway and Tamerton Vale Primary Schools merged in 2008 to become Beechwood Primary School. Part funded by a Central Government Targeted Capital fund and delivered by Plymouth City Council, the £8.2 million school is the second to be built as part of the £14 million Southernway Federation project to create one brand new school and one refurbished school to replace outdated facilities.

The exciting design includes classrooms built around an enclosed 'market place' as well as 'break-out spaces' for both school and community use. The school has two multi-use games areas which can be used by the community, one of which is covered and is the first of its kind in Plymouth.

There is a children's centre at the site, offering support services for parents including parenting classes, healthcare clinics and a new nursery, which provides childcare in purpose-built surroundings. There is also a specialist speech unit for city youngsters aged three to five.

In May 2010, children were joined by their families and neighbours in a 'giant caterpillar' walk from the site of the old school to the new premises off Rockfield Avenue, Southway; giving everyone a chance to see the new learning facilities before the school opened on 9 June 2010.