WORK on a new Redditch high school is moving forward, with construction due to start on a new learning resource centre and refurbishments under way elsewhere.

Trinity High School and Sixth Form Centre, which will serve pupils from north Redditch, is due to officially open in September 2001.

The school will be based on the site of the current Abbey High School, in Easemore Road.

Next month, a learning resources centre boasting 16,000 books and 40 computer stations will be started along with the new sixth form centre and classroom suite.

Refurbishment of the main hall and work on a fourth computer suite for the school is also in progress.

The improvements are part of a multi-million pound investment package resulting from the Redditch Review, which will see current town schools closing or merging to slash surplus places.

The review decided the three Redditch high schools be pared down to two, located on the current Abbey and Leys High school sites.

Headteacher of the new school, Marian Barton, said: "These extensive additions to a site which already has extensive facilities will enable staff and pupils to work in the best possible conditions to ensure that each pupil achieves success."

Most of the staff appointments have now been made and it is hoped that all posts will be filled in time for the official open evening on October 17, when the Trinity badge and tie will be unveiled.

"I am delighted with the new staff team, teaching and non-teaching, which is developing.

"Their commitment, expertise and experience will ensure a flying start for the new school," said Mrs Barton.

School uniform for the new pupils will be a black blazer, grey trousers or skirt and a white shirt.