If you’ve built a bigger school, you’re going to need a bigger cake.

Staff, pupils and some special guests marked a £2.6m makeover at Hextable Primary School with a giant cake – and they now have a new games area to run off the extra calories.

Kent County Councillor (KCC) Roger Gough was on hand to commemorate the expansion from a two-form entry school to a three-form one, which saw the addition of five classrooms, a new library, a larger hall, extra parking and a multi-use games area.

The extension of the Swanley school, from 420 to 630 pupils, was funded by KCC.

Cllr Gough, cabinet member for children, young people and education, said: “It’s wonderful to see pupils learning in modern buildings and enjoying playing sports on the brand new multi-use games area.

“A few years ago, KCC identified a deficit of primary school places in the Swanley and Hextable area. We needed to react to that deficit and add one form of entry to one of the schools in that area.”

Head teacher Suzie Hall said: “We were delighted to officially declare the expansion of our school open. This included our fabulous new multi-use games area, which we are very lucky to have. We also have a wonderful new library with cosy corners and a purpose-built den to snuggle up in to read one of our many new books.

“The expansion also included a community room and five additional classrooms, which teachers and pupils have already settled into.

“The children have commented on how spacious, light and airy their new classrooms are.

“In addition to this, we were lucky to gain an expansion to our already spacious hall, which can now accommodate all pupils.

“This will also allow enough space for parents and carers to support their children in various events and performances throughout the year.”

Ian Watts, chairman of Hextable Parish Council was also at the celebration along with representatives from Kier Group, the building group involved.