An ambitious fundraising drive has started as a school expansion scheme gets underway.

Building work has begun on a new sixth-form block at Crossley Heath School in Halifax to create more classrooms, a social area and study space.

And the whole community is being urged to help the school achieve its goal.

The Department of Education has granted funds for the building itself which will be next to the sports hall and is due for completion in September.

The fundraising campaign has been launched to coincide with the build and money generated through the drive will help equip and furnish the new centre.

Crossley Heath is attended by many students from across the Kirklees area.

Ultimately, the school aims to extend the sixth form centre to include even more learning and study spaces. There is also an opportunity to make repairs to the North Lodge building behind the school, which has been empty for many years, and create a café/social space for students which the public can also use at agreed times.

Headteacher Wendy Moffat said: “This is an exciting opportunity to transform our provision for students which has been previously denied to us and is long overdue.

“Our fundraising campaign is ambitious and we are seeking support from all sections of our school community to help us achieve our goal. The new accommodation will make a substantial difference to the experience of our sixth form students.”

Donations can be made by contacting the school or following the link on the school website.