SCHOOLCHILDREN and councillors were present at a ceremony to mark the final phase of a �4.6million school development in Highbridge.

A topping-out ceremony was held at Churchfield Primary School as the last stage of work for the 420-pupil school began.

Once all work is completed, by VINCI Construction UK, the development will include 16 classrooms to accommodate the students.

The ceremony was attended by children, the clergy, teachers and councillors.

Councillor John Woodman said: “16 classrooms was the maximum size we could have for a school on that land.

“It’s imperative that we give our children the best possible chance for life in the working world.”

Headteacher Wendy Nelder said: “We are really looking forward to moving into our modern state-of-the-art school in the autumn term in 2012.

“This will be a real asset to our community. It will provide the best possible facility and learning environment for children in Highbridge.”