BUILDERS have started work to improve a village primary school for its youngest pupils.

The Secretary of State backed plans to redevelop St Helen Auckland Primary School, near Bishop Auckland, which is a grade II listed building.

A single-storey 25m x 10m extension is to be built to the north and west of the nursery, which was extended about ten years ago.

The annex, expected to be completed by late October, will provide a reception area, general office, staff room and kitchens.

Consulting and training rooms and a multi-purpose space will also be created for Sure Start, a Government early-learning initiative already based at the school.

To replace part of the playground being lost to the development, a new play area will be created to the north of the nursery garden. A canopy and play area will also be built to the west of the current creche.

The oldest part of the building is to be refurbished to create a foundation stage site, in line with a Government move to link nursery and reception classes.

Three to five-year-olds will all learn closer together in the open-plan area, which should be ready by August 15.

Headteacher Tom Violet said: "This work will improve facilities, it will be a much better environment for pupils and staff.

"It is nice to see some physical improvements to the building, pleasant surroundings help children learn and enjoy their time at school."

Jean Bond, an early years advisor with Wear Valley Sure Start, said: "The extra space will enable us to run more toddler groups, play sessions, computing and adult learning classes.

"We also hope it will lead to funding for a Neighbourhood Nursery, through the New Opportunities Fund, which could provide low cost childcare for parents who want to go back to work or retrain."

Wear Valley Sure Start will hold an open day at Auckland Youth and Community Centre, Woodhouse Close Estate, today from 10am to 2pm with family activities and displays about the scheme.