Work on the refurbishment and extension of São Miguel de Seide Primary School is now underway. The project involves a municipal investment of around €1.3 million and aims to restore the existing century-old building, whilst demolishing the adjoining structure to make way for a modern building capable of meeting the needs of the school community.

Work officially began this Friday, 17 April, with the signing of the contract by the Municipal Council and the company responsible for the works, Fernando Silva & Cª, Lda.

“We want to have the best school network in Portugal,” said Mário Passos, the mayor, emphasising that the project will provide children with “excellent conditions to promote teaching and learning processes”. The mayor also highlighted that the project “responds to the population growth the municipality has been experiencing”.

Vera Moreira, the school’s coordinator, emphasised that this project will make a “significant difference”, as the existing spaces no longer met current needs. According to her, the new facility “will have four classrooms, which will allow each year group to have its own classroom, putting an end to mixed-age classes”. Vera Moreira also noted that the significant increase in pupil numbers had forced the library to be converted into a classroom, a situation that will now be resolved.

The project will link the two buildings, providing the school with a new canteen and kitchen, a library/multi-purpose room, a staff room and support areas. The project also includes the complete refurbishment of the outdoor areas, with a new playing field and accessible pathways.

It should be noted that, whilst the works are underway, the school is operating from temporary premises next to Casa de Camilo.

The works have a completion deadline of 365 days, and it is expected that by September 2027 the school year will be in full swing in the renovated premises.