There were smiles all round at Ysgol Penycae this week following the completion of a new £2.6 million building revamp.

In a ceremony attended by pupils, teachers and councillors alike the school formally opened the new and upgraded buildings, which bring pupils and teachers under the same roof for the first time.

The upgrades have added four new classrooms, a new school hall, updated kitchen facilities and a modern playing area.

The construction was carried out by Reed Construction, with the building work coming on time and on budget.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard, said: "It was great to be at the school to see for myself what these improvements have meant to both pupils and teaching staff.

"There's now a real sense of community and the future at this school is looking very bright.

"Our continued improvements to our schools is a sign of our commitment to improving the educational environment for children and staff.

"The Welsh Government continues to support us in this through its 21st century schools funding and I was pleased to see their representatives at the celebrations."

Chair of Governors, Cllr Joan Lowe, said: "This is a great day for the school and I was very proud to welcome everyone to the new facilities and to unveil the new plaque along with Ysgol Penycae pupils Halle Williams and Ben Schleising.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved in ensuring these improvements happened and to making us all very proud of our school. Well done everyone and good luck to the pupils and staff as this new chapter in the schools history begins."

Education secretary Kirsty Williams complimented the new facilities, saying: "Our 21st century schools and education programme is not only about new buildings; it is also about improving existing schools to create the best learning environments for our learners.

"I am thrilled to see the completion of this project, match funded with £1.3 million from the Welsh Government, which has provided excellent facilities that will be enjoyed for many years to come."