CHILDREN at the new Berrygrove Primary and Nursery School will be stepping out in their brand new uniforms on Monday.

The first day of term marks the beginning of a new era for pupils and staff at the new Watford school which has been created by the amalgamation of Meriden Primary, Lea Farm Junior and Garston Infants.

Robert Gordon, executive member for education said: "The name 'Berrygrove' is deeply rooted in the history of the area and it will be very much a school at the heart of the community.

"Preparing for the opening has been a real team effort, with children, parents, staff and governors helping to devise the name, logo and uniform. This is a red letter day for everyone who has worked so hard."

Headteacher Chris Kronda said: "We're showing that we're planning for the future by planting sunflowers in small pots that represent the nursery. These will then be moved to bigger pots, to represent reception class and eventually will be planted out, representing the wider world.

"We intend to plant the seeds from the sunflower heads in the grounds of our new school."

Parents and children have the chance to look round the new building the day before school starts, at an open afternoon on Sunday between 2pm and 4pm.

Mr Kronda said: "The new school building is nearing completion, and as yet, most of the children have not been in their new classrooms, so they and the staff are very excited.

"We're all looking forward to the new term at Berrygrove Primary and Nursery School and we've received so much support and encouragement from parents, staff and people in the community."