STUDENTS from two south Somerset schools are jumping for joy after refurbishments to buildings were completed.

Buckland St Mary Church of England Primary and Castle Primary in Stoke Sub Hamdon had been undergoing significant improvements during the past 12 months, and the renovated buildings have now been officially opened.

Buckland St Mary released balloons to signify its new facilities, while Castle’s refurbishments were opened by Lord Paddy Ashdown.

Buckland St Mary has had a brand new nursery created from a former barn to replace a temporary classroom, which had become run down.

The youngest pupils now have better access to the outdoors and technology, with the new buildings also allowing them to have more opportunities to interact with the rest of the school.

Steve Morton, head of Buckland St Mary C of E Primary Head of School, said the new buildings would help improve the school for the children.

Mr Morton said: “Our youngest children can now enjoy a purpose-built space which is in keeping with its surroundings but also offering all the technology and space needed for high quality care and creative learning.

“I would like to thank the school community for their support and patience during the construction and I think that you will agree it looks amazing.”

The Castle Primary will now benefit from the use of a new main entrance, an additional classroom, extra library space and a permanent home for the before and after school clubs.

The kitchen and reception areas have also seen improvements and now have more organised space.

Jeremy Handscomb, head of Castle Primary, said the school had tried its hardest to remain true to its roots.

Mr Handscomb said: “We’ve worked very closely with the architects and builders to ensure that our much-needed refurbishment is in keeping with our beautiful Victorian school.

“This can be seen in a new oak door for our entrance and a restored original ceiling in one of the classrooms.

“I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved in the space that we have to benefit all of our families.”

Both schools are part of The Redstart Learning Partnership who helped organise and fund the new facilities.

Suzanne Flack, chief executive of the Redstart Learning Partnership, said: “I’m delighted that one of the first things that we’ve been able to achieve as a partnership of schools is prioritise the completion of better learning environments for our children.”

The new nursery at Buckland St Mary was designed by Boon Brown Architects and was funded by Somerset County Council with contributions from The Redstart Learning Partnership and the Parochial Church Council.