Extra space will cater for a further 180 pupils

A former community centre converted into high-quality temporary school places was officially opened by Brent Council.

Pupils, parents, school staff and councillors were among the guests at the event at the opening of a new annexe at Stonebridge Primary School, in Twybridge Way.

Work began last year to totally refurbish the empty, run-down community centre, as part of a borough-wide drive to create hundreds of extra primary places for local children this academic year.

The annexe, which is a short walk from the main site, will offer an additional 180 pupils at Stonebridge Primary.

The refurbishment includes new floors, modern toilets, new furniture and a total redecoration, to create six classrooms, a large hall, play area and offices.

Head teacher Sophie Allen said: “We worked closely with Brent Council on this project, to ensure that the building could be used to its full potential in order to support the children’s learning. People walk in here and they say ‘wow’”

Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said: “Tackling the rising demand for school places in Brent - which is also London-wide - is one of my top priorities.

“We are working closely with local schools and together we are determined to create a world-class school place for every local child.

“We lobbied the Government hard to get the funding we need for new school places and we are now investing in expansions such as the new annexe building.

“I want to thank the head teacher and her colleagues for the huge amount of hard work they put into making this happen.”