Huge expansion of Avon Valley College officially opened
The new block at the Durrington secondary is now ready for students.
The 18 classroom, three storey block, in the grounds of Avon Valley College is needed as the school's set to see a big increase in pupil numbers in the coming years.
They're expecting to need 270 additional places due to the local population expanding, and the Army Rebasing project that's seen thousands of soldiers and their families moving into the area.
The new block houses a drama studio, music rooms and recording studio, IT suites, art rooms and teaching spaces.
The school's described the expansion as a 'fantastic resource' that will 'transform provision' for the school.
The official opening of the new block has been led by Brigadier Paddy Ginn, the Commander of the Bulford based 20 Armoured Infantry Brigade.
He's cut the ribbon on the building a few weeks after pupils started using the classrooms for the start of the Autumn term.
Social distancing measures were followed throughout the ceremony, with Avon Valley College students accompanying the opening with some music.
Avon Valley College is part of the Salisbury Plain Academies Trust, which also includes four primary schools - St Michael's at Larkhill, Bulford St Leonards, Durringon All Saints and Netheravon All Saints.
The new teaching block at the secondary is thought to have cost £4.6 million.