Newmarket Academy is delighted to announce plans to build a state-of-the-art library thanks to a generous gift from Godolphin founder His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The school has spoken of their delight about the donation saying it will make a “significant difference” to every student.

Headteacher Nick Froy said: “We are incredibly humbled and grateful to receive such a generous gift from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed.

“We believe that a joy of reading is the gateway to academic success and therefore career opportunities for the young people of this community.

“Sheikh Mohammed’s continued and considerable contribution to this school will make a significant difference to the lives of every student who attends our Academy. This library project allows us to put literacy at the very heart of the school.”

It is believed that this is one of the only times a state-funded school has received funding for any new building from a private individual.

It comes two years after the Newmarket Academy Godolphin Beacon Project was formed, a programme that uses the assets and networks of the racing community to provide structured education across all year groups.

The five-year partnership also includes guidance on pathways to employment within racing and associated industries in Newmarket.

In 2017, the joint programme was highlighted by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall when she visited the school and in the Ofsted report last Julywhen the school received a ‘Good’ rating.

A planning application for the new library has now been submitted to Forest Heath District Council.