PUPILS at a North Somerset school will soon be able to improve their artistic skills.

PUPILS at a North Somerset school will soon be able to improve their artistic skills.

Building work on a new multi-million pound performing arts centre at Sidcot School in Winscombe started last week.

The new centre, which is expected to be completed by autumn next year, will include art studios for visual conceptual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography and film making.

There will also be facilities for music and drama study, including a performance hall, rehearsal studios, a library and teaching rooms.

The project is being carried out by Somerset builders Henry W Pollard and Sons Ltd.

Headteacher John Walmsley said: "This new state-of-the-art centre will provide the very highest quality, 21st century facilities for our students.

"It will also become a major focus for arts in the local community, with local people being able to watch and take part in a whole range of creative arts.