WORK to build a new school in Hatfield has reached another milestone.

Hatfield Community Free School held a topping out ceremony this week, as the Briars Lane building reached its highest point.

Contractors Balfour Beatty hosted the event, where operations director Steven George presented principle Dr Sue Attard with a silver trowel engraved with the name of the school.

Other guests included Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps and Professor Graham Galbraith, deputy vice chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire, which is partnering the school’s development.

“I am delighted to see the establishment of the school building and would like to thank the people of Hatfield for their kindness and warm welcome,” Dr Attard said.

Mr Shapps added: “I am delighted to have a new primary school for the parents and children of Hatfield.”

And Prof Galbraith said: “I am excited about the future prospects for the children who attend the school.”

Work to finish the building in time for the new school year in September is on time.

It is intended for the school to have 60 reception places available in 2012 and then 60 reception places each year after that.