SINGING star Olly Murs sent pupils a special message as they celebrated an expansion project at their school.

The pop performer told Stanway Fiveways Primary School pupils during an assembly to “remain focused, work hard, have fun and to enjoy school”.

Members of the men’s and women’s Team GB hockey teams also sent a video congratulating the school on the opening of the new multi-use games pitch, which has

been created as part of the project.

They encouraged the children to remain active and continue to enjoy physical activity in school.

Nine new classrooms have been built at the school so it can take on more pupils.

There is also a new school hall, food technology room and outdoor play areas have been upgraded.

The work, commissioned by Essex County Council, means there will be an extra 315 school places.

The school contacted Olly and the hockey stars to ask for a video message.

Headteacher Lisa Finch said: “The children were so excited and felt very special to receive the video messages.

“During the special celebration assembly, when Olly appeared on the screen, some of the pupils were opened mouthed.

“They were so surprised to see Olly and to hear him talking about our school and the exciting times ahead, which was fantastic to see.

“It was good to use the clips to inspire the children and it really did make the occasion even more special for the pupils.”

She added: “The expansion project and opening of the new Wheatfield Block represents an exciting moment for Stanway Fiveways Primary.

“The school community,

especially our pupils, have loved watching the building project develop over the last year.

“We believe it is really important local children can go to their local school and we are pleased to be able to offer more places to Stanway families.”

The new block compliments the existing school block which has been re-named Winstree.

A time capsule was also buried during the celebration.

Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s councillor responsible for education, said: “School projects like this are vital to support areas of increased growth, like we’re seeing in Colchester.

“We are continuing to invest heavily in the expansion of existing schools, as well as the construction of brand new sites, to meet the demand for school places in the town now and in the future.”

More than 900 new primary school places have been created in Colchester, following the completion of five expansion projects in time to welcome pupils for the 2018/19 autumn term.

The council has already spent £30 million on primary school projects in Colchester since September 2014, including two new schools - Braiswick Primary and Camulos Academy – as well as several school expansion projects.

Expansions have included St Michael’s Primary School, Stanway Primary School, Home Farm Primary School and Monkwick Junior School.

Stanway Fiveways will be holding open days every day from the week commencing November 5 for prospective families.

Tours will be at either 9.30am or 2.15pm and will be led by the head teacher or deputy head.