Construction has begun on Lake Country’s highly-anticipated new middle school.

The much-needed $40-million project will add 600 student seats in Lake Country, alleviating ongoing issues regarding class sizes in the area.

It’ll be called HS Grenda Middle School and it’s being built on land south of George Elliot Secondary School.

"Students and families in Lake Country have been waiting years for this school, and it's so exciting to see it moving forward," said Rob Fleming, minister of education. 

"Our government took quick action on this investment, so more students can have a better place to go to school."

Designed by CHP Architects, the school won’t only look modern, but it’ll also promote 21st-century learning and give young students a chance to take full advantage of BC’s new curriculum.

It will also include a Neighbourhood Learning Centre that Central Okanagan Public Schools intends to use for child care.

"Parents throughout the province, and especially in rural areas, have struggled to find quality affordable child care for too long," said Katrine Conroy, minister of children and family development. 

"By partnering with school districts, we can create new quality child care spaces more quickly and bring child care closer to home for Lake Country families."

Moyra Baxter, chair of the Central Okanagan Public School Board of Education, says the school, which will be for students in grades six to eight, will support grade reconfiguration in the area.

HS Grenda Middle School is expected to be ready to take in students in September 2021.