SINGAPORE: On the first day of the new school year, students at Bukit Panjang Government High School had lots to cheer about.

Staff and students, past and present, were happy to trek from the school where they were housed for two years to the newly renovated building at Choa Chu Kang.

Before the S$25 million revamp, some students had to have their lessons in containers due to the lack of space.

The new school has study areas on every floor. It also has a spacious indoor sports hall, as part of the Education Ministry's plans to equip every school with one by 2014.

Currently, 82 schools are in the process of being upgraded or getting new premises. These include Tampines Primary School, Shuqun Secondary School and River Valley High School. - CNA/vm