LATEST equipment and latest teaching resources will be used when the science and geography block opens at Clarendon House Grammar School, Ramsgate, this spring. The project is due to be completed by the end of April with students and staff using the new facilities in the summer term. A formal official opening ceremony will be held later in the year.

The cost of the four science laboratories, two geography rooms and a utility classroom has been met by a £833,000 Government grant, and £100,000 from Kent County Council. The £8,000 Pfizer Science Prize that the school won last year will help pay for some of the equipment in the labs. A Government grant will be made available to upgrade an existing science lab once the new building is completed.

Head teacher Jane Bennett said: “This is an exciting project for the school and the new block opposite the main building will help us deliver core subjects in top class facilities. We are very keen to ensure that we offer current and future pupils the best working environment and the new block will be a great place in which to learn and teach.

“For example, the use of interactive white boards linked through a computer network are outstanding teaching aids and this equipment will be incorporated into the new block. I hope that local primary schools will be able to use the facilities as well. Not only will it give younger pupils the chance to use advanced facilities but it will give them an insight into secondary school life, which is very important for their educational development.”

Labs made redundant by the new block will be used to expand the school’s technology facilities.