Principal Contractor SMD was proud to host the groundbreaking celebration for school expansion project
A significant milestone was celebrated in Dunton last week as local councillors, school leaders, and key project partners came together for a special groundbreaking ceremony at Dunton CofE Junior School, marking the official start of a transformative school expansion project.
The event commemorated the beginning of construction on a brand-new two-storey teaching block and Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a development that stands as a testament to the strength and determination of the local community. Speeches from Central Bedfordshire Council representatives and Head of Schools Maria Poultney recognised the school’s heritage and celebrated its bright future.
SMD, appointed as principal contractor for the school expansion project, was proud to join the celebration alongside our project partners from Central Bedfordshire Council and design partners Saunders Boston Architects, Design4Structures, Wadys Electrical & Mechanical Building Services, Mace and Baily Garner LLP, . Together, we are committed to delivering high-quality facilities that support inclusive education and inspire generations of learners.
“This event marks more than the start of construction – it symbolises the impact of a united community fighting for its future,” said Paul Hopewell-Campion, Site Manager at SMD. “We’re honoured to be playing our part in bringing this vision to life.”
The ceremony included a ceremonial first dig, tours of the site, and discussions about the exciting improvements to come. Once complete, the new building will house three classrooms, including a practical learning space for cookery, art, and design. Additional upgrades – from enhanced accessibility features and modern washrooms to a secure new perimeter – reflect the school’s ongoing evolution into a fully inclusive, future-ready environment.
Speaking at the event, Moomith Ullah, Director at SMD, said:
“This school expansion project is close to our hearts because it embodies what construction should be about – creating real, lasting value for people. At SMD, we talk a lot about building with purpose, and that means listening to the communities we serve, understanding their needs, and delivering spaces that make a difference. It’s a privilege to be working with Dunton CofE Junior School and Central Bedfordshire Council on something so meaningful, and we’re proud to be contributing not just to the school’s future, but to the wider legacy of this village.”
Our commitment: Building with purpose
True to our values at Spacemaker, this project is about more than construction. We’re pledging to make a meaningful contribution across three key areas:
- Community: We’ll be working with pupils and staff throughout the build, delivering engagement activities, site tours, and learning experiences to bring the project to life in a hands-on way.
- Workforce: We’re creating opportunities for local people. From work placements to mentorship and career insight days, in partnership with Inspire 2 Ignite CIC.
- Environment: With sustainability front of mind, we’re minimising disruption to daily school life and ensuring a greener, safer site through smart planning and low-impact practices.
Maria Poultney, Head of Schools at Dunton CofE Junior Schools Federation, reflected:
“This project marks a new and exciting chapter for our school and the wider Federation. The expansion ensures a strong and sustainable future for our children… It’s wonderful to see our Dunton site develop the Federation into a full primary model, strengthening the pathway for children from Wrestlingworth CofE Infant School as they continue their journey with us.”
The groundbreaking event also served as a moment to acknowledge the tireless efforts of local campaigners who successfully fought to keep the school open. Their passion and persistence are now being realised in brick, mortar, and boundless opportunity.
With completion expected in Autumn 2025, the project is well underway – and we’re excited to continue the journey together with the Dunton community.
