A NEW-LOOK school has opened its doors to pupils.

Skerne Park Primary School, in Darlington, welcomed children for the first time yesterday.

The £4.5m complex provides a nursery, children's centre, adult learning facilities, health services and schemes for parents.

The shared development is one of the first of its kind.

Headteacher Di Teasdale said: "It's absolutely beautiful. We love the design, and the staff and the borough council have worked so hard to get it looking this good.

"The local community, children and parents have a fabulous facility."

The classrooms include interactive whiteboards, chairs have an orthopaedic design and infants' classes have their own toilets.

The 315-place school replaces the former Skerne Park Primary School, which is due to be demolished, with the site used as part of the landscaping for the new building.

The overall development will be given a name shortly, following consultation with the local community.

Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "It has taken a lot of hard work to reach this stage and I am sure the pupils will be as excited as everyone who has worked on this first-class scheme."