The transformation at the Walton on Thames secondary school included creating independent sixth-form study areas and space for Year 12 and 13 students to relax and socialise, complete with their own kitchen.
“After months of careful planning, and in partnership with Surrey County Council, our students have been enjoying making good use of our brand-new facilities,” said Barbara Mayaire, Principal at Three Rivers, which is a member of The Howard Partnership Trust. "Walking through these spaces now and seeing them lived in by our students, I am struck by how much an environment can influence ambition.
"When we started planning this project, we knew we had to provide a space that matched the high aspirations of our students and this new wing offers two spacious independent study rooms and a welcoming social space with comfortable seating. It is designed to feel modern and airy, bridging the gap between school and the independence of university life."
She added: "We also decided to reconfigure our existing footprint to ensure our Sixth Formers remained integrated within the heart of the school community while still having a dedicated area they can call their own. This strategic decision ensures that our most senior students remain visible role models for our younger years.
"The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Our Sixth Formers tell us they feel special and valued, enjoying the autonomy and the proximity to staff support when they need it. We aren't just providing classrooms; we are providing the tools for our students to exceed the record-breaking achievements of the year before them."
Head students Evie and Sam have been delighted with the changes.
Evie says: “When the doors opened, we were all truly amazed. It felt like a totally different place, far exceeding anything we had imagined.
"The new Sixth Form area feels much more like a university campus than a school, especially with the bespoke facilities like our own kitchenette. Being separated from the main school building creates a distinct environment where it feels like it is just us - a real community of Year 12 and 13 students.
"This layout has completely changed how I approach my day. Having designated zones for silent study versus group work allows for much more effective planning. It makes us feel more like adults, and being trusted with our own spaces to maintain makes us feel incredibly valued as senior students.
Sam agreed: “The best thing about our new facilities is the immediate shift in atmosphere. Once you enter the silent study area, you feel compelled to switch into ‘work mode’ because you are surrounded by other students focusing on the same goals.
"You know you won’t be disturbed, which is a vital factor as we prepare for our upcoming A-Levels. Despite being busy, the entire area feels calm and quiet, helping everyone prioritise their workload across both year groups.
"The spaces are open and airy, so we never feel crammed in; there is plenty of room to spread out our books and folders. I particularly enjoy the social area being near the kettle - making a hot drink feels like a reward for hard work and provides a great space for peer group discussions.
"However, the most important element is the accessibility of the Sixth Form Office, which sits right between the two main rooms. You never feel alone because support is always nearby if you’ve had a difficult lesson or feel stressed. It is a clean, friendly, and professional environment that truly prepares us for the future.”
The new facilities come at a time when the Sixth Form is going from strength to strength, with record A-Level results reported at Three Rivers in 2025.
“Our A* to A grades increased by 50 per cent last year, and this year looks set to continue that trend,” explained Miss Mayaire. “Most of our students get into their first-choice university – in fact, we have a higher proportion than the national average of students who end up in Russell Group universities.
“Pastoral support is very good at Three Rivers Academy – but our students also get the independence and autonomy to transition from Year 11 to university. The students are getting all the tools they need to beat last year’s cohort.”
The project was also about inclusivity, with the new layout including a specially designed Inclusion Area and a SEND Resourced Centre, both situated within the heart of the building.
"These areas feature small, dedicated spaces for specialist provision, ensuring that we continue to meet the diverse needs of every learner,” continued Miss Mayaire. "What has been particularly heartening is the layout; by design, students accessing our inclusion services now walk through the Sixth Form corridors.
"This has fostered a sense of belonging and reduced the fear factor often associated with older year groups, making our most vulnerable students feel truly valued."
She added: "This refurbishment is a vital step in our continuous journey of improvement. With our latest Ofsted report judging every aspect of our provision Good, these facilities firmly establish Three Rivers Academy as the school of choice in our local area.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have such outstanding facilities, and I am excited to see how they will empower our students to reach even greater heights in the years to come."
5. Contributed
Three Rivers Academy sixth form hub Photo: Submitted