A POPULAR Woodford Green school will now be able to teach even more children after a massive expansion project was completed.

Bancroft's Prep School, in Woodford High Road, last week celebrated the opening of three new classrooms, a science lab, an arts and crafts room AND a high-tech multi-media performance area, which will allow it to expand its intake of pupils in the next academic year.

The building, which was designed by The Barnard Partnership group and built by Pexhurst Ltd, was constructed especially with the school's original historic building firmly in mind.

Deputy Bursar, Graham Wicks, said: “Aesthetically it is a very attractive building which looks as if it has always been here. Great pains were taken to duplicate the original materials.”

School marketing officer Karen Rogers added: "Care was also taken over environmental issues. Sustainable materials were used throughout and, with the aid of solar panels, it will be a far more energy efficient building than the original building.

"The impact on neighbouring Epping Forest was also a major consideration, with the light spill into the forest being minimalised so as not to disturb the natural habitat of forest wildlife.

She added: "The feedback from staff, parents and pupils has been very positive."

Headmaster Chris Curl added: “This new extension is a fantastic asset to the Prep School’s facilities. Staff and children alike are excited about moving in and making use of the space it offers."

The opening coincided with the school's annual Visitation Day, also featuring its yearly prizegiving ceremony.

Also in attendance were Redbridge Mayor Cllr Thomas Chan and staff, governors, and wardens of the Drapers Company group.