AN education expert has said he hopes a new school building named after him can inspire the next generation of science and maths boffins.

Professor Sir Tim Brighouse helped officially open the structure at Cheney School in Headington just before half-term.

The Brighouse Building was given the go-ahead two years ago and work was completed in time for the current school year.

Sir Tim, whose wife Liz is leader of the Labour Party group on Oxfordshire County Council, said he was told the building would take his name earlier this year.

He said: "It is an honour, although it is a little embarrassing.

"What is far more important is that it is a really good facility and has really good people in it, both students and staff, who are committed to making a difference.

"The staff are committed to making a different to the youngsters and they in turn are committed to making the world a better place.

"I am sure some will go on to become distinguished scientists and mathematicians in their own right."

The Brighouse Building contains state of the art classrooms, laboratories and computer stations as well as quiet study and social areas.

Property and construction consultants Ridge were involved in its design, including replacing a single-storey science and teaching block from the 1950s.

Ridge designed both 'studio' labs and 'fully serviced' labs to help reduce the required floor space and overall construction cost.

At the opening ceremony guests were welcomed by students who are fundraising for a trip to India next summer and there were also musical performances as the red ribbon was cut by Sir Tim.

He said: "It is a really, really good building.

"School buildings can have all sorts of mistakes in them but this one does not appear to have any of them.

"It is very good indeed.

"I know the students think it is great.

"They were there at the opening ceremony and they were full of ideas on what they can do to change the world."

All students take science until the end of year 11 and then have the option to continue it to A-Level.

Pupils take part in trips such as to Harcourt Arboretum, to open days at Oxford University and to other museum and science conferences.

The school's curriculum places practical science work at its heart and aims to make sure students are motivated and challenged in lessons.