A new science and technology block in place of a redundant gym at Oldfield School would have knock-on benefits for other subjects, plans say.

The limited number of laboratories mean science lessons are often timetabled in general classrooms, while students can only join the design technology A-level every other year.

The plans say the school cannot currently run a full curriculum for years seven and eight and the shortage of teaching space is forecast to increase in coming years.

Two more art classrooms are needed, but the construction of the newer sports hall means there is a surplus of hall and indoor PE space.

The redundant old gymnasium will be removed to make way for the new block, which will have two general science labs, two design technology classrooms, along with preparation space and a general student meeting room.

The development could allow the existing undersized design and technology classrooms to be repurposed for art.

The planning application says: “The school has been assessed as a ‘tight site’ due the extensive tree coverage and the restriction this places on the potential for development on the site.

“Repurposing or demolishing existing buildings has therefore been identified as a means of expansion that avoids intrusion on the site’s natural surroundings.

“The new teaching block replaces an under-utilised gymnasium, surplus to requirements, with much needed teaching spaces for science and design technology.

“Not only will these spaces help to meet current teaching space requirements, but they will lower the envisioned deficit of general teaching with the projected 2022/2023 intake.

“The proposed building represents a valuable facility that will help empower the delivery of high quality education within Oldfield School.”

Bath & North East Somerset Council will decide the fate of the application.

Stephen Sumner