Pupils at Warminster School are enjoying the benefits of the school’s new £1.2 million multi-purpose hall, completed at the end of last year.

Work started began in January 2013, after the school’s governors agreed the funds, and has taken 10 months, on budget and time.

In December the first event – a concert – was held.

Later this year the hall will be officially opened and headteacher Mark Mortimer, who took over from Martin Priestley in January, said: “The finished building looks fantastic and has enhanced the facilities.

“I’m very lucky to come to the school at this time. It will be used for concerts, theatre performances, year group meetings and lectures and offers a lot more opportunities for pupils.

“Everyone is really impressed with the finished building.

“It’s beautifully designed, both internally and externally, and the architects have done a great job making sure it is in keeping with the rest of the school’s surroundings.

“It’s important to have space where we can bring everyone together and the retractable seats mean it is very versatile.”

Architects Barrie Taylor Associates, main contractor Rigg Construction and sub-contractors Brand Electrical and JEM Heating Services designed and built the hall.

Mr Mortimer has suggested the hall is named after English educator and historian Thomas Arnold, who attended the school from 1803-1807.