A NEW maths block that will transform the way the subject is taught and learnt at a Forest school has been officially opened. 

The £2.1 million building at Dene Magna School in Mitcheldean was officially opened on Friday by Forest MP Mark Harper. 

The six-classroom block was opened ahead of schedule and on budget. 

It replaces a decades-old building that was dark, dingy and well past its sell-by date and, as well as bright and airy classrooms, students can now also enjoy views over the countryside. 

Mr  Harper said: “Maths is critically important — you cannot succeed in the modern world whether in education or business without a good grounding in maths.” 

He was also impressed by the giant sign — which features mathematical terminology — designed by maths teacher Steve Jones which is located  above the entrance. 

He said: “Its not very often when you go round a school that you see a subject sign that shouts out and says this is something we do and we are very proud of it. 

“It sends a very powerful message that this is a school where maths matters and education matters.” 

Inside the building there are illustrations of well-known people who have studied maths to a high level, including the Duchess of Cambridge, who was an A-level maths student, and world boxing champion Nathan Cleverley who read the subject at Cardiff University. 

Headteacher Steve Brady said the building was ‘an inspiration’ and “standing in the middle of the room getting used to the space is an amazing thing.”

He added: “It shows the young people of this area that it doesn’t end here, it begins here —it builds on the work that is done in the primary schools and there is some excellent work in our local primary schools.”

GCSE student Lewis Jones of Drybrook said: “The old building was very old and dingy and it didn’t have the right atmosphere for studying.  

“This is much better, its bright and airy and there are great views.”

•See this week’s Review for more photographs.