A NEW building to serve as a base for South Craven School's History Department has been officially opened.

The Glusburn Building, a four classroom block, was opened earlier this month. (March)

It was launched by chair of governors Iain Harris, who is stepping down from his role after 20 years.

He was accompanied by head teacher Dr Andrew Cummings, who is moving from this role at Easter after 16 years, new chair of governors Emma Benn, vice chair of governors Terry Hawley and governor David Harvey.

Mr Harris said: “It is great to end my time as chairman of governors with this wonderful new building.

"Working with Dr Cummings we have been able to transform the site over the last ten years.

"However, a school is about people and what I am most proud of is the improvements that have been made in teaching and learning so that many South Craven youngsters can progress to what they want to do.”

Dr Cummings paid tribute to Mr Harris's contribution to the school and thanked him for his support throughout his own time as head.

He echoed Mr Harris’s comments about the improvements to South Craven, developments that were recognised by an "Outstanding" judgement from Ofsted in 2013.

Dr Cummings added he was now keenly anticipating his new job, which would combine working at the school, for the Red Kite School Teaching Alliance and also for Ofsted.

Martyn Hill, who will become South Craven's head teacher after Easter, said: “I’m really excited by the challenge of taking on the leadership of South Craven School next term."

Ms Benn said she was also looking forward to working with Mr Hill to ensure the school continues to thrive.

The Glusburn Building has replaced three, old temporary properties which were no longer fit for purpose.

It has been constructed with money secured by South Craven in 2016 from the Education Funding Agency.

Development began in spring last year, with the steel frame going up in June 2017.