The school, which is the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s only community secondary school, will be completely rebuilt by 2013.

The existing 1950’s school will be demolished in phases with Shepherd Construction providing high quality temporary accommodation on site for 1500 pupils and more than 100 staff, while the new 17,000m² building is under construction.

Councillor Merrick Cockell, Leader of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said: “I am very pleased that we have reached this important stage in our ambitious plans for Holland Park School. We want Shepherd Construction to now press ahead and build a magnificent school for future generations of our children to learn and prosper in.”

Richard Vining, Managing Director South, Shepherd Construction, said: "We are delighted to now be on site with this exciting new project for Holland Park School and, working alongside all partners, our team has developed innovative construction solutions to embrace the imaginative design of the new build. We are looking forward to developing and delivering this first class and outstanding new school development."

David Chappell, Associate Head Teacher of Holland Park School, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see the process of building the new Holland Park finally begin. There are diggers on site! We do not underestimate the challenge the building schedule will have on our daily experience but we have secured excellent temporary accommodation that will provide facilities every bit as good as those we currently experience. The staff, student and parents are all very excited about the new building and accompanying sport and recreational areas. This is an exciting time; we have the privilege of watching the new school being built, piece by piece.”