A NEW £3 million learning block has opened at Wycliffe Preparatory School.

The university-style Etheridge Hall for Years Seven and Eight features high-tech teaching resources, a Year Eight common room and spacious new classrooms.

Science classrooms, art rooms and boys’ boarding dormitories have also been upgraded at the Stonehouse school.

Deputy head Ginny Jackson said: “While other years will access the block for language classes. It is predominately for Years 7 and 8.”

“The separate, grown-up space is beneficial in helping students make the transition from prep to senior.

“We give them more responsibility, and provide those life skills which will help them succeed.”

All the classrooms have natural light and state-of-the-art ventilation using temperature and oxygen to create an environment conducive to learning.

The interactive white boards and school iPads enable students to be more involved in class work, and allow them to do their research online and then present their findings immediately to their fellow classmates.