A £1.7million extension to Oakdale Junior School in Poole has been completed.

Six new classrooms have been built in a two storey extension at the school in School Lane, to allow admission numbers to increase in September when the new school year begins.

The school, which educates children from seven to 11, also has a new pedestrian entrance and a lift.

The Morgan Sindall team also refurbished some of the existing building including the staff room and toilets.

The team created a new playground and a nature garden with a wildlife pond.

The roof has 40 photovoltaic panels which convert sunlight into electricity and will help reduce the school’s carbon emissions.

Head teacher Eileen Bissell said: “We are thrilled at Oakdale Junior with our new facility and want to thank Morgan Sindall for being such considerate constructors.

“The works were carried out in a professional manner and finished to high quality with very little disruption to the school throughout.”

Cllr Mike White, cabinet portfolio holder for regeneration said: “It is great news that the extension is completed.

“It will allow Oakdale Junior School to increase their admission number from 140 to 180 pupils from September 2014; part of a borough-wide strategy to meet the growing demand for key stage two places in Poole.”

Deliveries to the construction site were timed to avoid busy school drop off and pick up times and Morgan Sindall staff spoke at assemblies to educate pupils about the dangers of a building site.

Jon Daines, special works director at the company said: “We’re delighted with the finished project at Oakdale Junior School.

“The extended and updated facilities will provide an improved learning environment for current and future pupils and staff at the school, while the external landscaping has created a great space for children to enjoy.”