HUISH Episcopi Academy in Langport is celebrating not one but two grants which will enable them to replace roof areas and build a new artificial grass pitch.

The project to replace roof areas at the academy is thanks to a Government fund which helps schools and academies with repair work.

The academy is one of four schools and sixth forms in and around Taunton which was given a grant by the Government as reported in last week's County Gazette.

Headteacher Andrew Davis said: “We are delighted that we can confirm a £257,000 project to replace a large number of roof areas across Huish Episcopi Academy.

“This funding is made up of £128,000 from the Academies Maintenance Fund as well as £129,000 from our own sources which shows our commitment to maintaining the highest possible facilities for our students.

“We are aiming to complete the works over the summer holidays so that there is no disruption to learning for our students.”

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the governor's decision to install a brand new artificial grass pitch on their site which will replace the current pitch.

Mr Davis added: “This project is costing approximately £700,000 and will not only include a new state of the art Astroturf pitch but also floodlights and associated coaching positions, particularly aimed at the development of football within our school and the local community.

“Funding for this project has come from both the Football Foundation and South Somerset District Council as well as from the Academy itself.

“The pitch will also massively improve facilities for other sports such as hockey and increase our provision for physical education related courses within the sixth form, as well as greatly enhancing the curriculum enrichment we can offer through Huish Sixth.”

It is hoped that the new pitch will be completed over the summer with a grand opening planned in September ready for the new academic year.