New school extension is officially unveiled

A new extension at an Alnwick school '“ comprising a learning hub, studio and four classrooms '“ has been officially opened.
Peggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane ColtmanPeggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane Coltman
Peggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School. Picture by Jane Coltman

The smart-looking facility at Swansfield Park Primary was unveiled on Tuesday.

Attendees were welcomed by head teacher Jenny Smith, and chairman of governors Bill Grisdale, who spoke about the new extension and the benefits it provides to the school and pupils.

Peggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane ColtmanPeggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane Coltman
Peggy Stanton cuts the ribbon watched by headteacher Jenny Smith, chair of governors Bill Grisdale, the oldest pupil Maddison McKay and the youngest pupil Omer Unsal at the official opening of the new extension at Swansfield Primary First School. Picture by Jane Coltman
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Six children from Year 5 also gave a presentation to those who attended.

The new facility was then officially opened by retired dinner lady Peggy Stanton, 83. She cut the opening ribbon held by two students – Maddison McKay, who is the oldest pupil at the school, and Omer Unsal, who is the youngest.

Guests were then welcomed into the new learning hub, which includes a library and computer suite, where they were greeted with singing from the school choir and were taken on a tour of the school.

The opening was attended by people within the community who have supported the school, those involved with the building project and local councillors.

Annabel Samuels with Mayor Alan Symmonds and Chairman of governors Bill Grisdale in the new library at the official opening of the extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane ColtmanAnnabel Samuels with Mayor Alan Symmonds and Chairman of governors Bill Grisdale in the new library at the official opening of the extension at Swansfield Primary First School.
 Picture by Jane Coltman
Annabel Samuels with Mayor Alan Symmonds and Chairman of governors Bill Grisdale in the new library at the official opening of the extension at Swansfield Primary First School. Picture by Jane Coltman
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Mrs Smith said: “Our school now provides a modern and stimulating learning environment for our children and it is a pleasure for staff to work in.

“We are all delighted with this new extension which has made a huge difference to our daily lives in our school.”

The new extension comes as a result of investment by the school and Northumberland County Council to enhance existing facilities.

Coun Robert Arckless, cabinet member for children’s services at the county council, said: “This extension is a fantastic addition to the school’s facilities and will provide an excellent resource for the pupils.”

Mrs Stanton, who worked at the school until she was 70, said it was an honour to open the facility.

She added: “It was a real privilege and the new extension looks fantastic.”