WEYDON School has officially opened its new performing arts building, the Medici Theatre, in front of dignitaries, invited guests, parents, staff and students.

The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Waverley, Christopher and Judith Storey, and Professor Roni Brown of the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham, were among the guests at the opening on Friday, March 4.

Within the new building, named in homage to the great Florentine family who did so much to encourage art in the Italian Renaissance, there is a 300-seat theatre, two classrooms, an art gallery and three state-of-the art studios plus a digital arts suite.

On the evening, Weydon students put on a talent show that included drama pieces, group and solo dances, choirs singing and musicians displaying their musical talents.

In addition, two films were shown which had been produced by current and past Weydon students.

Peter Brinsden, chairman of governors and Heather Legat, drama curriculum area leader, were given the honour of unveiling the plaque and officially opening the theatre.

There was warm applause to Mr Brinsden’s speech which included his thanks to Surrey County Council and to headteacher John Winter for making their visions become a reality.

Assistant head Matt Venton said: “This evening was a true reflection of the amazing talent we have within our school. Our students and staff have these amazing facilities to teach and learn within.

“The theatre and all its facilities will provide endless hours of joy, curiosity and inspiration to all those who have the privilege of studying within it.”

The opening of Weydon’s new theatre comes after the high-performing secondary school secured funding from Surrey County Council in 2013 to increase its intake by 25 per cent.

New facilities already built under the expansion programme include two all-weather pitches and floodlighting, a new canteen as well as various new classrooms, science labs and an eco-friendly maths block.

A further bid for amendments to a new 33,000-square feet teaching block granted planning permission in December 2014 is currently pending a decision by Surrey County Council.