THE first school learning plaza in Monmouthshire has been officially opened at Castle Park Primary School in Caldicot.

County Councillor and council vice chairman Maureen Powell marked the occasion by planting a tree.

The new learning plaza for 60 students provides a flexible and technologically advanced multi-functional space enabling Castle Park to deliver personalised education and prepare children for transition to secondary school. 

The plaza will help promote 21st Century learning, life skills and future employment.  The building is highly insulated and employs panels of local straw for the walls, reducing the need for heating.  Photovoltaic panels have been installed to generate power while children enjoy high levels of natural daylight and ventilation.

Governors and staff as well as local MP Jessica Morden, Assembly Member John Griffiths, county councillors and representatives from Monmouthshire County Council, the Welsh Government and construction partners Wilmott Dixon attended the opening with a morning of celebration including a concert by the pupils. 

Councillor Powell said: "I'm so pleased to see these 21st century facilities which enable the pupils to widen their education in a magnificent purpose-built plaza."