New study facilities, including the latest multimedia technology, will be included in plans for a £4.5 million state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre at Solihull School.

Planning permission has been granted for the four-floor facility to be built at the heart of the school in Warwick Road, which educates boys and girls aged from seven to 18 years.

Construction work will begin in July 2014 on the building, which will transform teaching and learning for Sixth Form pupils at the 453-year-old school when it opens in September 2015.

Designed by Birmingham-based architects Malcolm Payne Group, the sustainable building will include high levels of natural light and ventilation, as well as low energy lighting and an energy efficient heating system to minimise its impact on the environment.

The new Sixth Form Centre will be constructed on vacant land previously occupied by the Old Gymnasium.

Headmaster David Lloyd said: “Our new Sixth Form Centre will deliver a state-of-the-art teaching and learning environment that will enable pupils to fulfill their academic potential and prepare for university and beyond.”

Solihull School, which was founded in 1560 and has occupied its current site since 1882, has invested in a range of mew facilities over the past decade including the David Turnbull Music School, the George Hill Building containing new classrooms and the Alan Lee Pavilion.

The school is staging a Sixth Form Information Evening on November 6 at 7pm and an 11+ Information Evening on November 12 also at 7pm. Further information can be obtained by contacting the admissions secretary on 0121-705 4273 (email: enquiries@solsch.org.uk).