Most children start the term with new books and stationery but pupils in Borstal returned to a whole new school.

The Pilgrim School in Warwick Crescent has been completely re-built. It opened its doors on the first day of term last Monday.

Pilgrim School was formed three years ago when St Matthew’s Infant School and Borstal Manor Junior School merged.

The new school took over the Borstal Manor site and plans were soon in place for a new building.

Construction work began on the old playing fields last year to create a modern building with high-tech facilities for the staff and 210 pupils. It also has an unusual grass roof.

Head teacher Justin Smith said: “We have an entirely new school with fabulous, state-of the art facilities.

“The school now has views over Rochester, with views of the castle and cathedral, so the children can see the community they in which they live.”

* More on this story in Monday's print edition.