CHILDREN have swapped old for new now that their Victorian school has been transformed.

More than £325,000 has been spent by North Yorkshire County Council's education service on the school at Melsonby, near Richmond.

The 39 children on the roll now have some of the best educational facilities in the county and a bright, lively atmosphere, where they are taught by two full-time staff, a part-time teacher and two non-teaching assistants.

The original features of the 140-year-old building have been blended with present day needs in a project carried out while the children were taught in the nearby Methodist church.

A mezzanine floor has been added making use of the lofty ceiling, which previously was wasted space. This is now used as a library, for assemblies and indoor PE and extra teaching space.

There is also new heating and double glazing, an IT suite, designated wet and sand areas, a technology section and a place for maths, role play material and outdoor equipment.

Headteacher Bridget Watt said: "We now have excellent learning opportunities for a wide range of abilities. The school is now a healthy and safe learning environment."