MOVING to a new school has transformed education for 300 Darlington pupils, according to their deputy headteacher.

The pupils at Alderman Leach Primary School moved into their new multi-million school in February.

Although there were a few teething problems, deputy headteacher Helen Steele said the move had created a closer community.

"We used to be on two sites joined by a link, but now there is very much the ethos of one whole school.

"It is much easier to get around, and the shape of the school also helps because it is a circle built around a school hall," she said.

Pupils at Alderman Leach are also using new interactive white boards.

Mrs Steele said: "We didn't have any before, so they are now a new feature in lessons and they make learning much more interactive." Before the school moved out of its old building, which has been demolished to make way for houses, it was targeted by vandals.

The school reported 38 incidents of criminal damage and theft last year. In the end, Darlington Borough Council had to hire a security guard.

The new school was built with security in mind.

There is also a multi-use games area.

Mrs Steele said: "If you had seen staff and the pupils before, the difference is really noticeable, they are all much more cheery.

"The whole school is fantastically better, the only problem for the teachers is they are getting less exercise now the site is compact."

She said there had been some teething problems with parking.

The school will be an integral part of West Park community village, which is under construction.