JOSCA'S school at Frilford Heath will begin its new term in September with a new name - Abingdon Preparatory School.

The decision - taken nine years after the formal merger of Josca's and Abingdon School - will coincide with the opening this September of the preparatory school's new £3m development which includes a sports hall, changing rooms, classrooms and an art room. The new facilities will enable the school to expand to take 250 pupils.

Headmaster Chris Davies said: "The new development and the expansion of the school mark a very exciting time in our history. We are delighted that we will now be able to offer the opportunity of an Abingdon education to more children. I believe that these new buildings represent some of the very best facilities available for four to 13 year olds."