A school has officially opened its new, state-of-the-art building – much to the delight of its staff and pupils.

Weald Rise Primary School, in Robin Hood Drive, Harrow Weald, has benefitted from a purpose-built facility with an extensive play area and specialised classrooms.

Guests, parents and former students gathered to witness the official unveiling, which was carried out by the Deputy Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Kareema Marikar.

Cutting the ribbon, before a ceremonial cake cutting, she explained to the pupils that if they “worked hard” they could “achieve anything”, including making it onto their local council.

Her words were echoed by Cllr Georgia Weston, who spoke fondly of her time at Weald Rise and said she was excited to see what the future holds in its new home.

The new building sits adjacent to the previous school, which, though loved, was due an update.

Head teacher Folake Agbaniyaka expressed her pride at seeing so many happy faces around the playground as she promised a bright future for all involved with the school.

She said: “Now we have a state-of-the-art modern school that’s fit for a modern education and nobody is happier than the children.

“They love the bright, spacious new classrooms and purpose-built, well equipped music and food technology room.

“Our school song has never been truer than it is today – ‘We are proud of Weald Rise Primary School’.”

After the official ceremony, guests were taken around the school by members of staff and a number of the children from Year 6.

They were shown around all the new classrooms, as well as the kitchen, main hall and the impressive playground, which will only get better as more of the old school is removed.

The next thing to look forward to is the digging up of the time capsule – whenever that may be – which was buried by the school contractors, Kier, to maintain a snapshot of the historic day.