A HAMPSHIRE primary school is in line for a prestigious architectural award.

Wellstead Primary, pictured, in Hedge End, has been shortlisted in the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) awards 2010.

The school was created by Hampshire County Council architects led by Liam Presley.

The wood-and-brick design is split into two parts separated by a courtyard.

The school, on the edge of Dowd’s Farm, will be competing with ten other finalists to be crowned the best example of new British architecture in the south.

Head teacher Richard Wharton said: “We feel immensely proud and privileged to be using the building. It wows people when they look around the school and creates a positive first impression that the staff then work hard to build upon.

“It is light, airy modern and bright. We want children to think of this school as a happy and special place and the building is a big part of that.”

Also in the running is house in Gurnard, Isle of Wight.

The winners will be announced on May 20.