A FOUNDATION stone for a new building at a West Wickham primary school was unveiled by the mayor before an audience of excited youngsters.

Councillor John Holbrook heard how West Common Primary School, Gates Green Road, has been forced to place pupils in temporary accommodation since 1986. Teachers and pupils are now looking forward to moving into the new six-classroom building.

A new hall, for assemblies will replace the existing one, which is too small for the school's 450 pupils.

The school was able to afford the building after receiving a £1.6m grant from the Department for Education and Skills new deal for schools initiative .

Headteacher Stuart Chesney said: "The children are excited about moving into the new buildings. We hope to have them completed by the end of this year, and may be moving some classes in close to Easter."

November 26, 2001 10:40