The scheme is funded through the regional priority school building programme and is the first of three schools in the planned batch.

BAM has developed the initial designs for the new Helston college with architect Stride Treglown, which is assisting in the scheme’s continued development.

A new teaching block on the north will also provide a dining hall, sports hall, and ancillary accommodation, with old spaces being demolished afterwards to make way for modern sports pitches.

The other school project, each worth around £8m, will be Newquay Tretherras School in Cornwall and Plympton Academy in Plymouth where planning has been submitted and contract negotiations are underway.

Graham Kingdon, BAM’s Construction Director, said: “We not only have to be very competitive to secure good value for money for the ESFA, which means us using very modern and efficient techniques for creating these facilities, but also we have to give the schools fresh buildings matching their needs and aspirations.

“This is helped by our close partnership with Stride Treglown and by our having a well-developed supply chain in Cornwall thanks to us delivering several recent schemes in the county.

“We are hopeful we can conclude the process for all the schools to get on site and deliver not only the schools themselves, but also, life opportunities from working with the local community. A construction scheme presents an opportunity to learn and train people for the future benefit of the industry.”

Work on Helston College has commenced on site and it is expected to hand over early 2020.