“BEFORE it was a building, but now it has become a school” - said a teacher after the corridors of three state-of-the-art Bridgwater schools flooded with excited students for the first time.

The Mercury visited pupils from Chilton Trinity on their first day in their new building, before catching up with students from Elmwood School and Robert Blake Science College who moved into a new site housing both schools.

Lesley Greenway, who took over the role as headteacher for Chilton Trinity in September, told the Mercury: “I'm totally bowled over by what we have got here. I can't thank everyone enough.

“The students are just amazed and a year seven student even said to me 'I wish this was my home'.”

The building's flexible design allows rooms to be transformed at a moment's notice, while the computers and resting areas give students the chance to learn independently.

Gareth Williams, Assistant Head of Chilton Trinity, added: “I've been with the school for 37 years but I think this new building is absolutely brilliant. I just can't believe we have it.”

School ambassador Simon Harris, 15, helped to design the school. He said: “The reaction from a lot of students is 'wow'. I worked with a group of people who chose designs used throughout the building. It's a great feeling to know the other students like what we've chosen.”

John Osman, leader of Somerset County Council, also attended the tour of the two new buildings. He was previously responsible for services for children and young people and was heavily involved in the project's early stages.

He told the Mercury: “I've spent around three years overseeing the project and put forward the case for the Building Schools for the Future Funding.

“I was there when the first shovel was put in the ground and I think the buildings have been done beautifully.”

Ann Winter, head teacher of Robert Blake Science College, described the first day as 'very moving'. She said: “It's been lovely to see the look on the children's faces when they see it for the first time.

“They've been saying to me how wonderful it all is.”

There may be two different schools under one roof now, but students feel like there is more space.

The children from Elmwood can also benefit from receiving the education which is right for them. For example, if a child is particularly good at science, they can sit in with the more advanced Robert Blake science class.

Liz Hayward, headteacher at Elmwood School, said: “Before it was a building but now it has become a school.

“It feels more like a college because everything is so modern. The teachers will end up asking the students to show them how to use the technology.

“It's just wonderful to see everyone enjoying it.”

Gill Slocombe, chairman of Sedgemoor District Council, described the schools as 'buildings of the future'.

She added: “It was lovely to meet the young people and see them enjoying their new buildings - which are just phenomenal.”