by Emma Boden

HOPELANDS Preparatory School held a re-opening event on Friday to mark the completion a major refurbishment programme.


The opening at the school in Regent Street, Stonehouse was attended by MP Neil Carmichael, local headteachers and former pupils who had attended the school since it opened in 1954.
 

Headteacher Sheila Bradburn said the school now has a much better capacity and can provide more activities for pupils.
 

She said: "Over recent years we had started to struggle with space as the school is an old building and we needed extra room.


"But last year we bought the building next door and secured permission to work on joining this with our existing buildings to make a purpose built school.
 

"We have increased our capacity and now have a new music room, design and technology room and an additional classroom."


The extra space allows for more after school clubs and pupils can now take music lessons thanks to the new room.


Hopelands also underwent work in 2006 with the restoration of Sophie Hall.


Mrs Bradburn said the children were very much enjoying the new facilities.


"The pupils are really happy and look forward to coming to school," she added.