Work underway on new sixth form centre at Pocklington School

The new sixth form centre at Pocklington School follows several years of planning and consultation, involving staff, students and the wider school community.

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Tim Morris, head of sixth form, said: “This is an important investment in our Sixth Form and in the experience of our students. We want to provide an environment that reflects the next stage of their journey, with high-quality spaces for both independent study and collaboration.

“The new centre will give students greater ownership of their learning, while also offering a comfortable and welcoming place to relax and connect with others. It is designed to support not only strong academic outcomes, but also the confidence and independence that students need as they move on to university and beyond.”

Designs for Pocklington School’s new sixth form centre (Image: Pocklington School)

He said the redesigned space will provide a clearer, more purposeful layout, with dedicated areas for both independent study and social interaction.

And that the redevelopment will transform the existing two-floor centre into a high-quality environment that better reflects the needs of Sixth Form students as they prepare for life beyond school.

The upper floor will become a contemporary study zone, featuring individual study pods, collaborative workspaces and improved supervision. Designs include integrated lighting, power access and carefully planned layouts to support focused, independent learning.

On the lower floors, the space will be reimagined as a comfortable and mature social and study environment, with flexible seating, improved storage and café style areas designed to support both collaboration and relaxation. The redesign will include new flooring, lighting and a refreshed colour scheme, alongside the introduction of natural materials and planting to enhance the overall environment.

The project is being delivered in partnership with design and build specialists TS Booker, working closely with the school’s estates team. The redevelopment includes a £100,000 investment in high-quality, bespoke furniture and will be completed over the summer, ready for September 2026.

Mr Morris said the investment reflects Pocklington School’s ongoing commitment to providing an environment that supports both academic success and personal development.

He said the sixth form centre plays a central role in student life, offering space to study, collaborate and develop the independence and skills required for university and future careers.

“By creating a more clearly defined and purposeful environment, the redevelopment will further enhance the Sixth Form experience and support students in achieving their full potential,” he said.