growing student body by September of next year.

The Development Applications Board (DAB) this week approved an application submitted by the school's trustees to build new toilets, a staircase and changing room along with the five classrooms at the Woodlands Road, Pembroke site.

The DAB's approval was for planning permission only and the school will still have to obtain a building permit.

The Board also required that arrangements be made allowing a safe flow of traffic.

The Board also asked that provision for the disposal of storm water be made.

Walls proposed as part of the plan must be faced or finished with Bermuda stone or be plastered at the time of construction.

School principal Trevor Rowell, was yesterday unavailable for comment but the approval follows on the heels of the private school's plans to carry out renovations at its Cavendish school and are part of its multi-million-dollar development plan.

With a student population of 225 and a growing waiting list, the school decided to add classroom space. Mr. Rowell last year told The Royal Gazette that there were about 150 students on the waiting list for Primary One to Junior Seven classes.

"By opening a modest five to 15 extra places in each preparatory and junior school grade over the next few years, class sizes will overall be reduced,'' he said at the time, adding this would improve the student-teacher ratio and help student achievement.

The additional classroom space would also reduce the waiting list and provide more space for newcomers, Mr. Rowell added.

Work at the Cavendish School is expected to begin during the school term and be completed by September.