Staff at a Sheerness school surprised their departing executive head teacher by naming a new £1 million building after him.

The extension at West Minster Primary has been christened the Bayford Wing in honour of Alan Bayford, who is leaving in July after 17 years in charge.

He found out after giving a speech at the grand opening on Friday, May 17, when chair of governors Jim Duncan handed him a plaque with his name on it.

The inscription read, “Thank you for showing us that if you work hard and do not give up, you will achieve”, and had the words, “inspiring generations” underneath.

Mr Bayford said: “I had no idea about that at all. It was an absolutely lovely gesture, really quite moving.”

The new building consists of four classrooms large enough for 30 pupils, a studio space as well as toilet and changing room blocks for boys and girls.

They have been in use since December and replaced mobiles which were removed around the same time to extend the play area.

The facilities are completely wheelchair accessible and a hearing loop sends out sound signals which can be picked up directly by children with hearing aids.

Lights turn on and off automatically so youngsters with poor eyesight do not need to find switches and there are no internal obstructions.

Two year five and six classes currently use the rooms and some of the lower years are expected to move in.

The studio space will be used for music and literacy lessons and it is hoped after school groups will also use it in the near future.

Assistant head of school Sam Atkinson said: “Personally I think it is excellent. It provides more space for the children. It is more comfortable, the studio space is excellent for being able to provide something different to the school for literacy and music.”

The Bayford Wing was opened by Kent County Council leader Paul Carter. Local dignitaries including MP Gordon Henderson, and teachers from other schools also attended.

Community chef Mike Spackman helped pupils to cook paella, which was served to the guests.