Sports Club in Devonshire has begun and principal Margaret Hallett could not be more thrilled.

Mrs. Hallett has been with the Montessori Academy since its quiet beginning at Tivoli in Warwick ten years ago.

She said: "We the parents, teachers, students and board have dreamed about a new school for so many years.

"After countless hours of hard work and determination, we're so pleased that it's finally happening.'' The school was able to purchase the site earlier this year after Partner Re provided a loan for $3.5 million. The six-acre site is currently undergoing renovation and two new buildings are under construction. The final cost could be in the region of $5 million. Montessori was prevented from expanding its former school building at Tivoli by owners, The Bermuda National Trust. The new facility will expand the roll from 135 to 200.

Mrs. Hallett explained what would be included in the new campus. "There will be two new buildings in addition to the existing main building. The interior of the main building has undergone extensive changes, the old fixtures are out of the way and new window openings have begun to create bright and airy rooms for learning.'' Montessori make over: An artist's impression of the new Montessori Academy, currently under construction on the site of the former National Sports Club in Devonshire.