Huge improvements are planned at Ashford’s Norton Knatchbull School (NKS) after a £2.2 million funding boost from the government.

The grammar, in Hythe Road, was awarded the money from the government’s Condition Improvement Fund, which is available to all academies.

The money will be used to refurbish what’s left of the older parts of the school, including the reception area, sixth form study room, main hall, canteen, music area and gym.

Susanne Staab, head teacher, said: "This means new windows, roofs and cladding, with a view to significantly increasing energy efficiency and to modernise the appearance and functionality of these areas of the school.

"I would like to clarify that this type of funding is ring-fenced and cannot be used to support other areas of the school’s expenditure, such as staffing, the curriculum or running costs.

"However, going forward, the savings we will be able to make in energy costs can be used to support the main budget of the school"

Mrs Staab said the work would begin this academic year and staff at the school will sit down with architects after Easter to draw up some plans.

She added: "We will consult with all school staff and local residents before commencing the works on this project to ensure that they are kept fully informed and can contribute to the process of making the works happen as smoothly as possible, with minimal disruption to the running of the school and minimal impact on local residents.

"This exciting project may also present additional educational opportunities for our students to learn practical lessons by attending talks and workshops run by our architects."