An education centre rebuilt and refurbished after an arson attack almost two years ago has been officially opened this week.

The Thorneywood Education Base in St Ann's, which is part of Nottingham’s Hospital and Home Education Pupil Referral Unit, caters for pupils and students with mental health illnesses, particularly illnesses such as eating disorders and self harming, whilst under the care of Nottingham Primary Care Trust's Thorneywood Centre. It also provides an education centre for pupils who find it difficult to go to their own school. There are approximately 20 pupils on site at any time. The Base is also used as a venue for home tutors to work with their pupils and as a resources centre.

BBC East Midlands weatherman Des Coleman cut the ribbon in front of the new building at a celebration entitled Sunshine after the Rain, and will plant a commemorative tree at the opening on Monday. (October 20).

A ribbon in front of the new building will be cut and a commemorative tree planted at the opening today.

A third of the building was destroyed in the fire in December 2006. The re-build has also included new food technology, science and technology areas together with a new staff room.

A display of pictures showing the building immediately after the fire and the progress of the rebuilding will be on display.

Councillor David Mellen, Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio holder for Children’s Services, said: “Nottingham’s pupil referral units are vital for continuing to provide a specialist education to young people unable to go to their local schools for many different reasons, including illness.

“ The fire at the Thorneywood base caused shock and heartache for pupils, students and staff, who have coped during the past two years with a shortage of space and the rebuilding taking place around them.

“ I thank them all for the forbearance while this work was taking place. Now they and those who use the base in the future, can benefit from the new state of the art facilities and the additional space that is now available.”