A NEW £250,000 Foundation Stage extension was officially opened at Hatherleigh Primary School last Thursday. The annexe includes a new foundation classroom for young children. There is also an undercover play area along with a new staffroom and disabled toilets. Staff say the new building means the youngest children now have access to the foundation curriculum, which emphasises play in a modern, light and safe environment. The design also incorporates a courtyard garden in memory of Mrs Lesley Bater, who worked at the school for many years, which links between the new and old building. Ingrid Dodd, chair of the school?s governors, paid tribute to the patience of staff, children and parents throughout the building process, despite the inevitable disruption this had caused. ?It provides the best possible facilities for our youngest pupils. I hope I speak for the whole school community when I say we are really proud of, and delighted with our new school building,? she added. Headteacher Linda Mitchell told guests: ?School is not just bricks and mortar but it does help!? The £242,000 development was officially opened by the chairman of Devon County Council Des Shadrick, assisted by primary school children. A plaque was unveiled and pupils provided musical entertainment for the assembled guests.