Pupils and staff were joined by the mayor of Bridgwater and Somerset County Council’s leader as they celebrated the official opening of their new state-of-the-art school in Bridgwater.

Part of the Clevedon Learning Trust (CLT) family, the £7.4 million facility will eventually cater for 420 pupils in 14 classes, and has a nursery and a 3G artificial sports pitch for school and community use. Energy giant EDF contributed £1.3 million to the cost of the build.

The school opened its doors in September and there are currently 46 pupils across two classes – reception and years one and two. Northgate Nursery opened in January with 26 places available.

On Tuesday the school was officially opened by the youngest pupil in the school, Narla Faith, and the oldest, Ferlando Hockey, along with Kieran a mascot from the Kier Group – the construction company which built the new school.

Pupils sang and recited thoughts on what made their new school so special during a presentation.

Somerset County Council’s leader, Councillor David Fothergill took part in the opening ceremony.

He said afterwards: “I am delighted that we have been able to deliver another new school for Somerset, and such a great facility for children and the community in Bridgwater.

“We are committed to investing in our county’s young people and their education.”

Heather Good, executive head teacher, added: “We are delighted with, and extremely proud of Northgate Primary School.

“It is a wonderful educational facility and a great resource for the community. In partnership with Clevedon Learning Trust we are developing an outstanding school in the centre of Bridgwater.”

Katie Penny, head of school said Northgate “provided outstanding educational experiences for children and families in the area”, adding that the nursery was already extremely popular.

The school was funded by Somerset County Council and EDF.