PUPILS have been to see their new school taking shape as part of a new £8million campus to replace classrooms dating back to the 1930s and 1940s.

Youngsters and staff from North Prospect Primary and South Trelawny Primary are keeping an eye on work at their new 420-pupil combined school on Ham Fields.

Architects and builders have consulted teachers and pupils, who have returned to their classrooms to tell their friends.

Pupils and staff at the schools and nursery will now be asked to help name the school and design their own uniforms ready for the opening of the buildings next September.

The 'Pavilions in the Park' design comprises five main blocks linked by covered walkways, all standing in extensively landscaped grounds.

The main building will include the hall, library, a computer suite, kitchen and dining room, community rooms, staff room and offices.

The school will also have new sports facilities including a multi-use games area and two football pitches.

The design is environmentally-friendly, with a biofuel boiler, solar panels and recycling of rainwater.

Teaching spaces are being designed to make the most of the views and of natural ventilation.

Chris Watts, head of North Prospect Community School, said it was exciting to see the building taking shape after four years of planning.

He added: "Our two schools both do a good job in old and outdated buildings.

"What we see growing before our very eyes are facilities that will open up opportunities for children, young people and families across the local area."

Mr Watts said that architects Capita had 'understood the vision' of staff and governors.

He added: "The children at both schools have been actively involved in the consultation about our building and continue to monitor its progress.

"They have also been involved in reporting on progress to our respective school communities."