EDUCATION chiefs have approved a £1.4 million extension to build new technology and library space at Tadcaster Grammar School.

The 1,659-pupil school has recently been awarded status as a business and enterprise college, which is expected to increase its rising popularity.

North Yorkshire County Council's education service has approved a £1 million extension to help it cope with the anticipated demand.

The school has put up £250,000, with a further £150,000 gained through its special status.

A design and technology centre will be added to the existing 1960s building, to house a workshop and graphics studio, while a new library and resource centre will more than double the size of the existing library, which will be transformed into a new information technology suite. Head teacher Geoff Mitchell said he was excited about the latest in a series of improvements that have helped to transform the school.

"This marks the conclusion of a long-term programme at Tadcaster Grammar," said Mr Mitchell.

"We have had five new science laboratories and a new sixth form study centre and coffee shop.

"This is the icing on the cake and the most important aspect about the latest development is that it will be used by all the students.

"The opportunities it provides are huge in terms of promoting learning skills.

"We have a proven track record of success and most of our students go on to further education.

"This scheme will provide everything we need to promote the school's high achievements and help us meet both high expectations and demand."

Building work is expected to start in March 2004, to be completed by December.

Coun Chris Metcalfe, the county council's executive member for education, said: "We demand a lot from our schools in terms of standards, so it is only right and proper that we should support them in schemes designed to improve facilities for staff and pupils.

"Tadcaster Grammar already has a fine reputation in the country. This will be enhanced further still once the new facilities are in place. It is yet another example of the commitment the education service shows to learning in North Yorkshire."

Updated: 08:42 Thursday, October 09, 2003