Exeter Primary School in Corby was declared open by Corby MP Phil Hope on Friday.

The new building is not only a school but offers courses as well as
antenatal and health clinics for parents, carers and families.

In a talk to invited guests that included parents, governors and other senior teachers from neighbouring schools, headteacher Gerry Lewendon said: "I am very proud of what the school has achieved over the past two-and-a-half years.

"We have made great progress which has seen the school move out of an Ofsted category and also open in a brand new building.

"But we could not have done this without the support of the architects and builders, our governors and the LEA and, most importantly, the staff, pupils and parents who had to cope with limited space while the new build was taking place."

The school choir sang We are the Young to the guests on Friday after the ribbon was cut and a plaque unveiled by Mr Hope.

In his speech particularly directed towards parents, the Corby MP said: "It's an absolute privilege to open the new school building. The Exeter area is a really strong community.

"All secondary schools in Corby are now really successful. You've got a real choice in Corby and children are going to go on to schools in Corby which are some of the best in the country."

Parents enjoyed a tour around the new building.

Sarah Bradley, who has a daughter, Megan, at the school, said: "It looks like a big improvement. It's got a good atmosphere and the staff seem friendly."

Incorporating a children's centre and pre-school, the complex has 480 children aged up to 11.

The new building – that has come into use over the past few months – is an extension of the former infants school.

Two new classrooms for seven to 11-year-olds were added on to the existing building and a new unit was attached for reception to seven-year-olds.

Outside areas have also been built which were designed by a leading New Zealand educationalist.

Plans for the future include a community project to create a pond within the school grounds, a secret garden and an allotment area.