Pupils and teachers are enjoying a brand new science and design and technology block which has opened at a school.

The £5m building at The Howard School in Rainham offers state-of-the-art facilities for youngsters.

The official opening of the building took place earlier this month and the purpose built classrooms, science labs and computer suites have been proving a hit for children and staff.

Pupils across the school's intake from Year 7 to 12 will be able to use them and the first lessons have been a huge success, the school's head says.

The funding for the building has been provided through the government at the Department for Education.

Along with the science and ICT rooms, the new building also provides specialist spaces for graphics, engineering and design and technology workshops.

Speaking about the new building, head teacher Jasbinder Johal said: "We are really pleased to be able to offer a new set of facilities to our students.

"The science and technology block offers state of the art facilities and equipment supporting our vision to deliver high quality inclusive teaching and learning to our students.

"Within the new block, we have two new ICT classrooms, a specialist graphics room, an engineering workshop supported by further design and technology classrooms, and a suite of science laboratories.

"Both staff and students have very much enjoyed teaching and learning in the new environment, which is part of our five year strategic plan to upgrade our existing facilities."

The all-boys school has a mixed Sixth Form and the school's trust also runs four primary schools – Temple Mill, Strood; Thames View, Rainham; Miers Court, Rainham and Deanwood, Parkwood – and two secondary schools – The Howard School and Waterfront UTC in Chatham – across Medway.