A “new era” for a school is about to begin as construction work gets underway for a £21 million extension with new sports facilities and classrooms.

Mayfield School, in Pedley Road, Goodmayes will double in size after construction is completed and the chair of governors said he is delighted that work is underway.

Governors hope that once the new buildings are completed, Mayfield will have facilities to match the best schools in the borough.

David Backhouse, chairman of the governing body at the school, said: “Next year will bring the start of a new era for Mayfield.

“I am delighted that work has now started on building what will essentially be a well-deserved new school at Mayfield.”

New sports facilities include a sports hall, all weather pitch, multi-use games area with a spectator area, running track and cricket pitch.

Other facilities include science laboratories, art rooms and new class rooms.

Mr Backhouse said: “The school is not just for the students and staff as we hope it will be used by the whole community whether it is by use of the sporting facilities or classrooms for IT and other adult lessons.”

Next summer both the existing sports and gym halls will create an open area which, the governor says, will become the heart of the school.

There will also be a new reception area.

“In years to come, these works will benefit thousands of students and the local community.

“We have much to look forward to,” Mr Backhouse added.

The headteacher Andy Rehling said: “The whole school is very excited by the prospect of new facilities and the opportunities being brought to our community”.

The groundbreaking ceremony was done by leader of Redbridge Council Cllr Keith Prince.

Cllr Prince said: “As a result of our educational success we attract a lot of families to the borough so there is an ever-increasing demand for school places.”

“This work is important to the whole of the borough.”