The new school will initially serve 1,600 pupilsWork has started on brand new Bristol school Oasis Academy Temple Quarter(Image: Miru Visuals)

Work to transform a former industrial site into a state-of-the-art school has begun. Construction firm Graham and Oasis Community Learning held a groundbreaking ceremony last week to mark the start of the project for Oasis Academy Temple Quarter.

The new facility is being built on Silverthorne Lane within the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone and is designed to initially serve 1,600 pupils.

Richard James, head of school at Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, said: “[The] groundbreaking ceremony is a proud moment for Oasis and for East Central. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that will see our students and community benefit from a permanent, purpose-built space designed for learning, growth and connection.

“This site was formerly one of the largest steel works in Europe, and for many years, hard work has been carried out here. It is our intention to continue that legacy, ensuring our students grow into confident, curious and compassionate individuals.”

The scheme includes the creation of a modern main school building alongside the conversion of a listed boiler shop, which will be transformed into the academy’s new sports hall.

The school will initially accommodate pupils aged 11 to 16, with plans to expand to 18 once the sixth form opens post-occupation. The design aims to provide an inspiring learning environment, combining specialist teaching spaces with facilities that support student wellbeing and foster community.

Peter Reavey, regional director at Graham, said: “It was fantastic to be on site today to celebrate the start of construction for Oasis Academy Temple Quarter. Groundbreaking ceremonies are always special, but this one felt particularly meaningful given the scale of the project and the passion of the school community.”

Mr Reavey added that the firm is proud to deliver a facility that will serve generations of young people in Bristol. The ceremony featured keynote speeches from Oasis founder the Rev Steve Chalke, Mr James, and Mr Reavey, alongside students and community representatives.

The permanent academy building is scheduled to open in September 2027.