WHEN he was one of the first students at Woodbridge School's new sixth form block in 1974, David Clarke had no thought that 34 years later he would be pulling the building down.

Paul Geater

WHEN he was one of the first students at Woodbridge School's new sixth form block in 1974, David Clarke had no thought that 34 years later he would be pulling the building down.

However, now the boss of CDC is supervising the demolition of the block where he studied for his A-levels. He said: “I was in the sixth form when the block opened all those years ago, so it is quite poignant to now be pulling it down - all the memories came flooding back. That was the first year that girls were admitted to the sixth form. I think we had the worst A-level results in the history of the school.

“I don't know if I feel sad to see it coming down, but it certainly takes me back all those years. When I heard there was a contract going for the demolition, I was determined to win it.”

Mr Clarke's children followed him to Woodbridge school and his daughter, Jessica, will be one of the first to use the new sixth form block when it opens later in the year. Mr Clarke said: “She's been showing a lot of interest in the work. I'm not sure if the team are happy to have her attention as they get on with their work.”

The buildings have now largely been reduced to rubble, but that is only part of the work. He said: “It is certainly the most visible part, but now we have to get into the foundations and clear those as well - but we are on target and I am confident it will all go well. Quite frankly we weren't too worried by last week's rain because in this business it helps to keep the dust down.”

The old sixth form centre is being demolished this week to make way for a new sixth form centre, which will be able to accommodate 200 pupils. As part of the scheme there will be suites of brand new classrooms and a new expanded art and design area.

Headmaster Stephen Cole said: “The governors are very committed and enthusiastic about the investment in these new facilities.

“The school continues to flourish with strong pupil numbers and a broad range of achievements including academic results, national sporting success, drama and music that was described by the school inspectors as 'exceptional'.”

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