A SCHOOL has marked the start of works on its new building.

Pupils and staff at St John’s school in Epping were joined by councillors, Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing , bosses from builders Higgins and representatives for the diocese of Chelmsford in a ground breaking ceremony on Friday.

Building work on the new £18 million school started over the summer, but head-teacher George Yerasimou who is Cypriot said the school wanted to celebrate the start of the construction during the new term.

“We expect the new school to be open in September 2013,” he said. “The builders have created two new entrances for vehicles and one pedestrian entrance in Bury Road.

“All the top soil is off and they’re digging the foundations.

“These are very exciting times and we’re so glad it’s finally underway. It’s going to be an absolutely fantastic resource.”