A MAJOR new extension at Highampton Primary School which will boost community access to the school's facilities will be officially opened today (Thursday). The £150,000 extension has been paid for from the school's own funds, and by almost £55,000 from Devon County Council. The extension will provide an improved teaching and learning area which is used for ICT, assemblies and music lessons. It means that members of the community are able to use the school's ICT suite during open evenings on Thursdays when former pupils also drop in with their parents to make use of the facilities for their homework. An additional disabled toilet has been included together with offices for the headteacher and administrator. The old office space has been converted into a new kitchen. Highampton headteacher Jill Bevis said: 'The changes to the building are having a positive impact on teaching and learning and the general welfare of our children and staff.' She said as a result of the extension, an old classroom was currently being transformed into a library. She described this as an exciting development that would provide greater opportunities for children to develop research skills as well as offering a warm and comfortable space to become engrossed in books. Mrs Bevis added: 'As with all projects in small schools, the governors, parents, staff and community have been generous to the school with their time and financial support for which we are very grateful.' She said the school was also very pleased with the financial support received from Devon County Council. 'A huge amount of work has been done on making the school more accessible and part of the project involved providing a ramp up to the school,' she said. 'Now we are able to make more of our facilities available to the local community.' County councillor for the Chagford and Hatherleigh ward, Cllr James McInnes, said: 'The Governors and staff have worked very hard to get this extension. 'It's a welcome addition to the school which will provide improved learning facilities and community ICT access.' There will be an afternoon of celebrations at the school today, commencing with the official opening of the extension by the chairman of Devon County Council Des Shadrick. There will be a Christingle service at The Holy Cross Church, Highampton at 2pm. This will be followed by a procession back to school, led by a shire horse.