Gardener Schools Group invest in fourth school site

An independent school group will launch a new private secondary school in Maida Vale after securing seven-figure bank funding.

Gardener Schools Group has used the multi-million-pound funding from NatWest to purchase the former Westminster College campus building on Saltram Crescent, which has lain unused for the last seven years.

The funding has also enabled a 12-month fit out programme, which is currently underway and will transform the space into a fully functional school. The new facility will be able to accommodate up to 600 pupils, aged between 11 and 18 from the local area.

The space will feature 40 classrooms, recreational spaces and a roof terrace for the school’s sixth form students.

Maida Vale School will welcome its first pupils in September 2020 and is in the process of accepting applications for the spaces available.

Gardener Schools Group was established and founded by head mistress Maria Gardener in 1991, who recognised a need for private schooling for mixed ability children in her local area. The group pursues excellence and innovation while establishing strong family communities at each of its four schools.

Sophie Hill, business development manager for the group said: “Six years ago we opened the first senior school for 11-18-year-olds in London. There was such a high demand for more, we knew we needed to invest in a second site and the former college campus in Maida Vale was perfect for this.

“With the help of NatWest we’ve secured the funds needed to purchase the building and invest in an extensive refurbishment programme to turn what is currently a traditional school building into a state of the art learning environment for our pupils. At Gardener Schools Group, we look at education differently and go above and beyond what is seen as the usual teaching model, ensuring our pupils get the best teaching and facilities on offer and help prepare them for the real world beyond the school walls.”

Steve Rengger, Relationship Manager at NatWest said: “The funding we have provided has enabled the Gardeners School Group to grow and welcome more pupils. We will continue to support the group as it establishes itself in London and expands over the coming years.”