THE new Darras Hall Primary School officially opened its doors for the first time this week.

The £5.8m building was completed in time for the start of the new academic year on Tuesday, with an outdoor playing field and play area scheduled for completion in November.

Headteacher Victoria Parr said: “Children, parents, and staff are really excited to be in the new school.

“The investment in Ponteland schools is fantastic and we feel very lucky. The facilities here are superb and they allow us to offer a wide range of facilites to our children. There’s a real buzz around school and we’re looking forward to our future in our new building.”

The new school was built following Northumberland County Council’s decision to reorganise schools in the Ponteland area to a primary and secondary education system.

Wayne Daley, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “We are delighted with this new school building which has created a great learning and teaching environment for staff and pupils. The features within the school provide a range of learning spaces for the children, including classroom space, creative areas, a music studio and outdoor spaces for learning, playing and exploring.

“The investment into Darras Hall Primary School is part of a wider £57m investment into the education and leisure facilities across Ponteland, which will also include a new leisure centre, library and secondary school.”