Ref. 31047-1SWINDON'S newest school is fast taking shape.

And delighted Clive Westall, the headteacher of St Francis School, in Taw Hill, says it will soon be at the forefront of a thriving new community.

The 119-strong Church of England school is due to open in September and just a few places remain.

Originally it was thought pupils would have to be taught in temporary classrooms until work was completed in April. But Mr Westall says the builders will be gone by January.

"They are doing a fantastic job," he said. "The building started in February and the walls were up by the end of March."

The school's fourth and last teacher was appointed last month. There will also be four support workers and an administration officer.

Mr Westall said: "Each new member of staff is like another piece in the jig saw and it's a very exciting time for me watching this project come together. I have chosen staff who will complement each other in terms of abilities.

"Not all of the teachers are from the Swindon area. This will ensure that the Local Education Authority gets an injection of fresh ideas."

A meeting is planned for July, which will allow the staff to get to know each other. At the meeting, Mr Westall hopes to thrash out school policy as well as ideas to furnish the school.

He said: "I am a great believer that teachers should have a big say in how the school should be run."

Mr Westall is also pleased with the extensive playing fields. "We have an area the size of three children-sized football pitches," he said.

Kevin Shoesmith