Malmesbury Primary School expansion approved following £7.8 million donation from Sir James Dyson

A major expansion of Malmesbury C of E Primary School has been given the green light after Wiltshire Council approved plans for a new science and technology centre funded by a £7.8 million donation from inventor and entrepreneur Sir James Dyson.

The project will deliver nine new classrooms, a multi-purpose hall and specialist learning facilities, creating space for an additional 200 pupils. Construction is expected to begin soon, with the new buildings planned to open by September 2027.

Headteacher Steve Heal described the donation as an extraordinary investment in local education.

"Sir James Dyson has been unbelievably generous. This is an unprecedented investment in a primary school and a wonderful gift to our town," he said.

The expansion will include modern Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM)classrooms equipped with advanced technology such as 3D printers, laser cutters, virtual reality headsets and other hands-on learning resources designed to inspire young learners.

Sir James Dyson said he hopes the new facilities will encourage more children to develop an interest in engineering and innovation from an early age.

"I'm delighted that Wiltshire Council has given this scheme their full and unequivocal backing. I look forward to seeing the project under way in the coming weeks," he said.

The James Dyson Foundation has spent the past four years developing the project. Global Head Juliet Charman said the investment will not only transform the school but also help create a new model for STEAM education in primary schools across the UK.

Wiltshire Council had previously considered the impact the expansion could have on neighbouring schools, but the plans were approved after the school committed to working with the wider community and sharing the benefits of the new facilities wherever possible.

Once completed, the development is expected to become one of the most advanced primary school learning environments in the country, giving local children access to cutting-edge technology and practical STEM education from an early age.