Stamford Hill special needs school and inclusive nursery Side by Side opened its new £11.6 million building on Monday with parents describing the state-of-the-art premises as “a dream come true”.

The 35,000 square foot campus has allowed Side by Side to almost double its capacity from 80 to 150 and provide enhanced facilities.

Side by Side was founded with the aim of giving every child a place to feel at home and thrive and its ethos will be maintained in the new building.

Pupils joined headteacher Gerald Lebrett and trustees for the ribbon-cutting ceremony beneath a celebratory balloon arch. 

“It is difficult to put into words what this opening means to me,” Mr Lebrett said.

“I am so incredibly proud of our whole team and I would like to take this opportunity to thank every person who has been involved in this project and worked exceptionally hard to ensure we reached this landmark occasion.

“This is more than just a physical move for all involved and we cannot wait to see what the next chapter brings as our pupils continue to flourish and reach new heights.”

Trustee Jacob Sorotzkin added that “this beautiful project will allow our current and prospective students to maximise their potential and develop in new and exciting ways.

“My sincere thanks to our donors and my fellow trustees. Our dream has become a reality.”