A WANSTEAD school’s new arts and humanities block could be “a centre of excellence” for students, a councillor says.

Cllr Kam Rai, cabinet member for finance and support services, hailed news that the Labour-led council is working with governors and senior staff at Wanstead High School to create a three-floor arts and humanities block.

Cllr Rai assured students that improvements will happen but the design and exact purpose of the building have yet to be worked out.

Cllr Rai said: “It could be a centre of excellence for the school and would ensure the kids have access to the best facilities. 

“It’s a very good school and I think for pupils there, if you are starting out in year seven or eight, a modern building is something to look forward to having.

“The current building is a really dated 60s block, built from material that’s safe but you wouldn’t use to build with now. We will consult with governors and staff rather than saying this is what you are having.”

Cllr Rai said a planning application would hopefully be submitted by the end of the year.

He added: “We can’t build schools but we can improve facilities. 

“Something that’s going to be there for 30 or 40 years with far better facilities will make life more comfortable for students during winter and summer."

Bob Hamlyn, headteacher at Wanstead High said: “We are delighted that Redbridge has plans to make much needed improvements to Wanstead High School’s facilities. 

“This proposed investment will go a long way to making sure we can continue to deliver first class education to the young people in this area.”

The news comes after the council announced that a new swimming pool open to public use will be based at the school.

Building work on the pool is expected to begin in the autumn.