ONE of Bolton's top performing primary schools is to undergo a massive modernisation programme to bring its 19th century buildings into the 21st century.

St Bede Academy in Morris Green has secured government cash for a huge refurbishment and revamp project which includes improving the junior block which was built in 1876.

As reported in The Bolton News this week, five schools in Bolton are to be given a slice of £33 million to fund school building improvements and expansion projects in the North West — projects which will include two new nurseries.

Headteachers say the money will make a "big difference" to the schools and the community.

Jack Hatch, Head of St Bede Academy, said: "Our children and teachers work really hard to achieve the academic success we are so proud of.

"Finding funds to improve our classrooms and toilets will help provide modern classrooms and facilities that we've not had before."

Part of the work will include demolishing two classrooms and "cramped" teaching spaces and adding three new classrooms to a new container block.

Mr Hatch said: "We are an urban school which occupies a very tight site but modern design and planning are helping us offer the children the teaching spaces that will help us develop our teaching even more.

"We will be building three new classrooms and two modern toilet blocks as well as being able to enlarge our corridor space to allow us to provide more flexible group teaching spaces.

"The bid we submitted was for around half a million pounds, but we have not yet had confirmation of the exact amount.

"This funding should help move our school well into 21st century whilst preserving the best of our long tradition of bringing excellence to our community in Morris Green.

"The children are all very excited and will be watching the construction through the summer break.

"The modern building methods being used allow us to guarantee the new classrooms will be open for the start of the September term.

"The governors, staff and all the children are delighted that the next stage in the school's journey can now begin."

As part of the funding, St Paul's CE Primary School in Astley Bridge is to receive a new nursery.

Headteacher Karen Bramwell said: "We are delighted that the department for education have approved our funding.

"This will make a big difference to our community as our parent body are very keen for us to provide Nursery education for their pre school children."