Reds10 hands over £17m Telford free school
A 420-place primary school built using offsite construction methods has opened its doors to pupils, after Telford MP Shaun Davies officially cut the ribbon on the development.
Delivered through the Department for Education’s Free Schools Programme, the two-storey Thomas Telford Free School on George Lees Avenue is made up of 78 modules, manufactured off site by MMC specialist Reds10, and includes a 26-place nursery alongside a floodlit multi-use games area, netball court and sports pitches.
The school hosted a visit from Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, as construction got under way in March.
“Projects like this have a lasting impact, giving communities the facilities they need while creating inspiring environments for children to learn and thrive,” said Richard Abrams, framework delivery director at Reds10.
“Maintaining education throughout construction was a key priority, and by working closely with the school, the Department for Education and our project partners, we were able to provide continuity for pupils and staff while delivering the permanent building on programme. We’re proud to hand over facilities that will serve local children and families for many years to come.”
Thomas Telford Free School opened in temporary two-storey accommodation on the site of its permanent facility in Priorslee, Telford, during its first academic year in 2025.
The school is the second primary school operated by the Thomas Telford multi-academy trust, which includes five other schools across Telford and the West Midlands.
Claire Whiting, Executive Headteacher at Thomas Telford Primary Free School, said the school’s move into permanent accommodation marked an “important milestone” for pupils, families and staff.
“We are delighted to move into a purpose-built environment that reflects our ambition for every child,” she said.
“The facilities provide exceptional opportunities for learning, sport, creativity and personal development, and will serve generations of children in Priorslee for many years to come. We are grateful to the Department for Education, Reds10 and all project partners who have supported the delivery of this remarkable school.”
Shaun Davies, MP for Telford, added: “The opening of Thomas Telford Primary School is a real achievement for our town, and one that’s taken a lot of hard work to make happen. I want to thank everyone who has played a part, including the teachers and staff, Telford & Wrekin Council, the Department for Education and Reds10.
“A new school is about so much more than the building itself. It’s about giving children in Telford a great place to learn, make friends and build a future they can be proud of. It’s fitting that the school shares its name with Thomas Telford, whose work helped connect communities across Britain. Education does something similar, opening doors and giving children the chance to make the most of their talents.
“This new building gives the school a fantastic home, but it’s the children, teachers and wider school team who will really bring it to life. I’m delighted to see this investment in Priorslee and look forward to seeing the school go from strength to strength in the years ahead.”
