In 2004 a major project was started, this involved:
In 2005 work was completed on the new teaching block, this provides eight new classrooms and new specialist rooms for Food Technology, Art, Textiles, ICT, Drama, Graphics, Resilient Materials and Product Design, the building also has a new reception area.
The Holt Building in 2005
The building was designed by Nightingale Associates and construction was carried out by Mansell Construction.
The Holt Building Under Construction in 2004
The new building was named the 'Holt Building', after Holt Hill Convent, another FCJ school in Birkenhead which opened in 1857. The school closed in 1976. More information about Holt Hill Convent can be found here
The Reception Area in the Holt Building in 2006
To make room for the new building, it was necessary to demolish the old kitchen and laundry wing.
On 29th April, while digging trenches for the footings, the builders lifted a large block of stone. Below the stone they found an old well. This was located just outside Whitehall.
The Cover Being Removed from the Well
The well was measured and found to be about 7 metres deep to the surface of the water, and the water was about 6 metres deep. The well was capped and building work continued.
The Well Shaft
The Holt Building was officially opened by Cherie Blair, wife of the then Prime Minister, on 18 September 2006.
Cherie Blair Opening the Holt Building
Do you have any pictures of Upton, or of events in and around Upton either old or not so old?
Do you have any documents, newspaper cuttings or other information relating to Upton or the surrounding area?
Do you have any stories about Upton or the surrounding area?
If you do, please contact me by e-mail at frank@upton.cx