400 pupils took part in the ribbon-cutting Schoolchildren at Estcots Primary School in East Grinstead got a very big present when they returned for the start of the school year earlier this month – a new school – all tied up with a big ribbon.

Kier Construction (Southern) has recently completed the new £3.5 million school building in the grounds of the existing Estcots Primary School for West Sussex County Council. Staff, pupils and local residents were all involved in the creation of their 'dream school' from the start of the process, and head teacher Susan Percy was keen to make sure that each and every pupil also played a part in the grand opening, which is why she decided to wrap a ribbon around the whole building and get all 400 pupils to ceremoniously cut it at the same time.

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Every pupil had also designed and made a flag for the opening ceremony, which was also attended by the Mayor of East Grinstead, Cllr John Saull, these flags were individually sewn onto a tape which was displayed on the fencing around the main entrance plaza.

The new single-storey school building includes fitted-out classrooms throughout, offices, a library and a hall, and features underfloor heating and sprinklers. Landscaping to external areas has created a MUGA (multi-use games area) for outside sporting and leisure activities.

(CD)