The schools are James Hornsby High School, Basildon, De La Salle School, Basildon and Shorefields School, Clacton. Work is due to begin in April 2012, with work due to be completed in 2013.

Not only will the school buildings themselves be transformed, there will also be considerable investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), creating 24-hour learning environments for pupils. 

Councillor Derrick Louis, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Central Services, said: “Wates have a very successful track record of delivering large scale building projects and their proposal demonstrated they can meet the very high standards we expect from our preferred bidder.”

Councillor Stephen Castle, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education, said: “I am delighted that despite the difficult economic climate we are continuing to invest in our schools. Ensuring our children have world class education facilities will help inspire the next generation of learners.”

Ian Vickers, Regional Director for Wates, said: “We are obviously delighted to have been awarded the contract to refurbish and extend these three schools.  As Education specialists, we will bring our expertise to the projects ensuring flexible teaching and learning environments.  Not only will we be building buildings, but we also want to make a lasting difference in the community. 

"We have committed to ensuring 70% of our labour comes from the local area providing many employment opportunities.  Additionally, as part of our proposals we have also committed to working with each of the schools to provide a number of apprenticeships, work experience placements and technology days – enriching the student’s education experience.”