Construction work is underway on a new technical and vocational education and training (TVET) block at Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School following a ceremonial groundbreaking.
Government officials, school leaders and members of the construction team gathered on 15 July to mark the start of the project, which will expand access to hands-on learning and skills training.
Principal Trevor Hodge said it is more than just a construction project, rather a statement of commitment to progress, innovation and Anguilla’s young people.
“This wing will serve as a hub for technical and vocational education, equipping our students with the skills needed to thrive in a world that is rapidly changing,” he told those gathered at the site.
“From technology and engineering to construction and design and other skilled trades, this facility will open doors and inspire futures.”
Hodge said that for too long, technical and vocational education has been seen as a less important path to careers.
“That ends here. It ends today. With this project we affirm every talent, every interest and every career path deserves the infrastructure and investment to succeed,” he said.
The principal thanked all those involved for their patience, commitment, tireless work and vision for a project that has been “coming for a while”.
Fit for purpose
Shellya Rogers-Webster, Minister of Social Development, Education and Library, Youth and Culture, said work will begin immediately on the “heavy digging and lifting” at the site in Campus Q.
Anguillian engineering consulting firm Synergy Consulting will be managing the build under the leadership of managing director Jerome Richardson and Mark Jno-Baptiste, director of engineering and design.
“We are committed to seeing this building through from now until the end, and we hope to have the doors open by September of 2026,” the minister said.
“We look forward to coming back here when we can officially open the doors of this facility and we can usher our students and teachers in in a comfortable and fit-for-purpose space.”
Premier Cora Richardson Hodge said technical and vocational education is a critical pathway to innovation entrepreneurship, national development and sustainability.
“Whether it’s in construction, hospitality, automotive technology, digital media or electrical trades, these are the skills that build economies and sustain livelihoods.”
She said the government is not just breaking ground or continuing the work of the previous administration – but showing its commitment to putting Anguilla’s young people first.
“To the staff and students of the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, this space is for you. May it become a hub of excellence, creativity and empowerment.”
National development
Also speaking during the event, Jeison Bryan, ministerial assistant for sports, youth and culture, said the project is more than just construction, but a “solid investment in the future of Anguilla”.
He said the new facility will open doors for young minds to explore technology, engineering, applied science – all critical fields for building a resilient and self sufficient Anguilla.
“Let this moment inspire us all to continue shaping a nation where opportunity meets preparation and where our youth are always empowered,” Bryan added.
Synergy Consulting managing director Jerome Richardson said he and his company were happy to be awarded the “critical” project, adding that they are familiar with the facility.
He said the firm has been working at the school for a while after being one of three contractors that constructed the original building, as well as completing the science block.
Richardson assured the company will ensure a safe working environment and looks forward to supporting other local businesses during the process.
He said Synergy Consulting has been given an “aggressive” timeline of 12 to 13 months for completion, and added: “We are up to the task.”
Watch the ceremony in full below:
