Denise van Outen at Gosfield School arts centre opening

Denise cut the ribbon at Gosfield School's state-of-the-art JW Turner Performing Arts Centre, which boasts a 200-seat theatre, dance and drama studios, and music practice rooms.

The centre offers a range of facilities for pupils to develop their artistic talents.

Basildon-born The Only Way Is Essex narrator Denise spoke passionately about the importance of the arts in education and congratulated the school on its commitment to boosting students' creativity.

West End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis (Image: Gosfield School)

Guests were treated to an evening of stunning performances from West End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis and the school's own talented students.

Kerry, best known for her role as Elphaba in the West End and Broadway production of Wicked, wowed the audience with her amazing vocals, while the young performers dazzled with their energy and enthusiasm.

Gosfield School pupils performing at the arts centre's opening (Image: Gosfield School)

School principal Rod Jackson spoke about the long tradition of the performing arts at Gosfield.

"We are thrilled to open the JW Turner Performing Arts Centre and provide our students with this exceptional facility to explore and develop their artistic passions," he said.

Gosfield School dance students at the arts centre's opening (Image: Gosfield School)

"We believe that the arts play an important role in nurturing well-rounded individuals, and we are committed to providing our students with the tools and resources they need to excel in this area, and indeed all other areas of their education.

"Performing arts allows children to express themselves and helps us to know children individually, thus nurturing their potential.”

The grand opening was attended by Halstead mayor Jackie Pell and councillor Peter Schwier, representatives from local schools and members of the school community.

Gosfield School is urging any community organisations which would like to make use of the facility to get in touch.