STUDENTS returned to Linton Village College to new state-of-the-art science, sport and leisure facilities following the completion of a �3million building programme. The new science block, which opened in time for the start of the new academic year, featu

STUDENTS returned to Linton Village College to new state-of-the-art science, sport and leisure facilities following the completion of a �3million building programme.

The new science block, which opened in time for the start of the new academic year, features seven spacious science laboratories and a preparation room, bringing the entire science department together under one roof.

The new building also incorporates a gymnasium equipped to national badminton competition standards, a dance studio for use by the college and the local community, and the Red Room, a community space which provides a home for a pre-school playgroup, after-school club and local youth club.

At three storeys high, the gently-sloping building offers views over Linton and nearby Rivey Hill. It has been deliberately designed to blend in with its surroundings, with architectural features including blue brick tiles which match those in the original 1930s listed college main building.

Principal Caroline Derbyshire said: "We are delighted with this new teaching space.

"The design is imaginative and attractive, and the students were really excited when they went into the building on the first day of term.