A �1.1m food technology and media suite at a Norfolk high school will not only benefit pupils, but will also be open for the whole community to use.

The new building at Archbishop Sancroft High School in Harleston was officially opened on Friday by the Bishop of Norwich following a 12 month construction project.

The extension comes after the Church of England school secured funding from the government for food technology facilities, Norfolk County Council money to start a creative and media diploma, and funds from the Diocese of Norwich to establish its community use.

The building also includes a community training suite, which will be used for adult education, first aid courses and parenting courses.

Richard Cranmer, headteacher at Archbishop Sancroft High said he wanted the Sancroft Centre to become an integral part of local life in Harleston.

'Two years ago, the government was offering funding for schools which did not have food technology facilities and most would have built a food tech room, but we had the vision for a bigger building.'

'The highlights have been the looks on students faces when they gazed around the studio for their first assembly or putting on their aprons for their first cooking lesson. It is inspiring our students and that's just what we wanted. The best schools in the land are outward looking and the community element is absolutely essential for us as we look to engage with them in as many ways as we can,' he said.

The studio area, which will host concerts and drama productions, will also be used for the school's daily assemblies.

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham James said: 'It is a privilege to see so much imagination, invitation and innovation.'